can3 fung1 sai2 lei5趁風使𢃇趁风使𢃇
Jyutpingcan3 fung1 sai2 lei5
Yalechan fūng sái léih
Definition
To act pragmatically, go with the flow, or take advantage of a situation to curry favor.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
This expression carries a strong negative connotation, describing someone who lacks integrity and shifts their loyalty based on who is currently powerful or successful. It is essentially the Cantonese equivalent of being a fair-weather friend or a political opportunist. The imagery of using the wind to steer a boat highlights how such people adjust their stance to suit the prevailing conditions rather than holding firm beliefs.
Examples
She is only being nice to you because you have become popular.
Don't be a fair-weather friend, you need to have principles.
Related words
Common phrases
to be an opportunistic person
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply being smart or efficient. It specifically implies a lack of moral backbone or disloyalty, so applying it to a friend or colleague is an insult.
Grammar color guide
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Adjective
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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.
