caak3 ziu1拆招
Jyutpingcaak3 ziu1
Yalechaak jīu
Definition
To tackle an opponent's move with a counter-move, or to counter a strategy or challenge.
colloquialworkdaily actions
How it's used
Originally derived from martial arts, this term is now widely used in business and social contexts to describe finding a solution to a difficult or unexpected problem. It implies a strategic response to a specific challenge rather than just solving a general issue. You will often hear it used when discussing how to handle a competitor's strategy or a sudden crisis.
Examples
He is making this move, we need to decide how to counter it.
Related words
Common phrases
think of a way to counter
take things as they come and respond accordingly
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with general problem solving like 解決. 拆招 specifically implies a reactive, tactical response to an opponent's move or a specific obstacle, rather than a proactive or long term solution.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
