dai2 paai4底牌
Jyutpingdai2 paai4
Yaledái pàaih
Definition
Hole cards in card games, or figuratively, one's secret trump card, strategy, or resources.
- hole cards; faced-down cards known only to the player
- figurativea secret plan, strategy, or trump card kept in reserve
colloquialother
How it's used
Originally referring to the hole cards in poker, this term has evolved into a common metaphor for one's hidden agenda or ultimate bargaining power. It carries a sense of strategic tension, implying that the person is holding back their strongest move until the most critical moment. Using this term suggests you are observing someone's behavior to see if they are being completely transparent.
Measure word
zoeng1張jēungExamples
You haven't shown your hand yet, what exactly are you planning?
Related words
Common phrases
to reveal one's hand
to keep one's cards close to the chest
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply having a secret. It specifically implies a strategic advantage or a final move that is being withheld for a competitive edge.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
