gei1 sam1機心机心
Jyutpinggei1 sam1
Yalegēi sām
Definition
An ulterior motive; scheming thoughts aimed at seeking personal gain or protecting oneself from others.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
Describes someone who is calculating, manipulative, or constantly looking out for their own advantage at the expense of others. It carries a strong negative connotation and is often used to warn someone to keep their distance from a person who seems insincere or overly strategic. Unlike simply being smart or clever, this implies a hidden agenda that is not immediately obvious to others.
Examples
That person has a lot of ulterior motives, you should be careful.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with being smart or intelligent. While it involves mental effort, it specifically refers to social manipulation and self-serving behavior rather than intellectual ability.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Particle
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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.
