cyu2 sai3處世处世

Jyutpingcyu2 sai3

Yalechyú sai

Definition

To conduct oneself in society

neutralpeopledescriptions

How it's used

This term is primarily used in formal or reflective contexts when discussing someone's character or philosophy of life. It carries a sense of maturity and worldly wisdom, often implying a strategic or cautious approach to navigating social relationships. While it appears in everyday speech, it is rarely used to describe simple, casual interactions.

Examples

keoi5 cyu5 sai3 hou2 jyun4 waat6 hou2 sik1 dak1 zou6 jan4

佢處世好圓滑，好識得做人。

He is very smooth in his social dealings and knows how to handle people well.

nei5 gok3 dak1 keoi5 cyu5 sai3 ge3 taai3 dou6 dim2 joeng2 aa4

你覺得佢處世嘅態度點樣呀？

What do you think of his attitude towards conducting himself in society?

Common phrases

cyu2 sai3 zi1 dou6

處世之道

the ways of the world

cyu5 sai3 jyun4 waat6

處世圓滑

socially tactful

Common mistake

Learners often mistake this for a general verb meaning to treat someone, but it specifically refers to the abstract concept of navigating social life and human relationships. It is not used for specific actions like helping or scolding someone.