bei2 jan4 maai6 zyu1 zai2俾人賣豬仔俾人卖猪仔
Definition
To be trafficked overseas to work as a coolie or indentured laborer.
How it's used
Originally referring to the historical forced labor trade of Chinese workers, this phrase has evolved into a common idiom for being deceived into a job that turns out to be exploitative or dangerous. It is frequently used in modern contexts to warn people about suspicious overseas job offers that promise high pay but involve illegal activities. The imagery of being sold like livestock emphasizes the total loss of agency and the dehumanizing nature of the situation.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not use this phrase to describe simple job dissatisfaction or being overworked in a standard office environment. It specifically implies a sense of being trapped, tricked, or physically moved to a location against one's will or under false pretenses.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
