but6 daai6 kwai4 sin3撥大葵扇拨大葵扇
Jyutpingbut6 daai6 kwai4 sin3
Yalebuht daaih kwàih sin
Definition
To act as a matchmaker.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This idiom literally refers to fanning with a large palm-leaf fan, which historically suggests the act of creating a breeze to bring two parties together. It is used exclusively in a social context to describe someone who takes pleasure in setting up romantic connections between friends. While it can be used affectionately, it sometimes carries a slightly meddlesome or gossipy undertone depending on the speaker's attitude.
Examples
She loves being a matchmaker and is always introducing people to each other.
Stop playing matchmaker, they aren't interested at all.
Related words
Common phrases
likes to play matchmaker
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe professional matchmaking services, as it is strictly for informal, personal social interference. It is also not used for business networking or professional introductions.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
