ceot1 waang4 sau2出橫手
Jyutpingceot1 waang4 sau2
Yalechēut wàahng sáu
Definition
To behave in an underhand manner or act improperly.
colloquialworkpeople
How it's used
This idiom describes someone using unfair, sneaky, or manipulative tactics to gain an advantage. It carries a strong negative connotation of dishonesty and is often used to describe sabotage or backstabbing in professional or competitive settings. The imagery refers to an unexpected or improper move that disrupts the normal flow of events.
Examples
He acted underhandedly behind the scenes to cause trouble.
Don't use dirty tricks when you do business.
Related words
Common phrases
to play dirty behind someone's back
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with physical actions. It is strictly metaphorical and refers to behavioral conduct, not actual hand gestures or martial arts techniques.
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.
