duk1 bui3 zek3擉背脊
Jyutpingduk1 bui3 zek3
Yaledūk bui jek
Definition
To stab someone in the back; to speak ill of someone behind their back.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This phrase is a vivid, idiomatic way to describe betrayal or malicious gossip. It carries a strong negative connotation and implies a deliberate attempt to undermine someone's reputation or standing. It is almost exclusively used to describe interpersonal conflict in social or professional settings.
Examples
Don't go stabbing people in the back behind their backs.
He is always badmouthing me to the boss, he is really mean.
Related words
Common phrases
to stab someone in the back behind their back
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with physical actions, as it is strictly metaphorical. It is not used for literal stabbing or physical back pain.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
