daa2 zyu2 ji3打主意
Jyutpingdaa2 zyu2 ji3
Yaledá jyú yi
Definition
To scheme; to think of ways to obtain something or to plot against someone.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
Often carries a negative or suspicious connotation, implying that the person is plotting something behind the scenes or has a hidden agenda. It is frequently used when someone is perceived as being greedy or having ulterior motives regarding another person's belongings or position. While it can mean simply planning, it usually suggests a lack of transparency.
Examples
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 諗主意, which simply means to come up with an idea or a solution to a problem. 打主意 implies a more calculated, often self-serving or manipulative intent, whereas 諗主意 is neutral and can be used in helpful or creative contexts.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
