cau1 si1 mok1 gaan2抽絲剝繭抽丝剥茧

Jyutpingcau1 si1 mok1 gaan2

Yalechāu sī mōk gáan

動詞

Definition

To analyze things in a meticulous, step-by-step, and systematic manner.

neutraldaily actionsdescriptions

How it's used

Evokes the imagery of pulling silk from a cocoon to reveal the core, making it a sophisticated way to describe deep analytical work. It is frequently used in contexts involving investigations, complex problem solving, or uncovering hidden motives. Unlike simple analytical terms, this implies a patient, methodical process that requires significant mental effort.

Examples

ging2警fong1方jiu3要cau1抽si1絲mok1剝gaan2繭，sin1先wan2搵dou3到zan1真soeng3相。

The police need to peel back the layers to find the truth.

nei5你maan6慢maan2慢cau1抽si1絲mok1剝gaan2繭，jat1一ding6定wui5會nam2諗dou3到baan6辦faat3法。

If you break it down step by step, you will definitely find a way.

Common phrases

cau1抽si1絲mok1剝gaan2繭gam3咁fan1分sik1析

to analyse in a methodical, step by step manner

Common mistake

Avoid using this for simple or quick tasks, as it implies a complex and time consuming process. It is a formal idiom that sounds out of place in casual, everyday small talk about trivial matters.