geoi1 sam1居心
Jyutpinggeoi1 sam1
Yalegēui sām
Definition
Intention or motive, usually malicious.
neutralpeopleemotion
How it's used
Carries a strong negative connotation, almost exclusively implying malicious or selfish motives. It is rarely used to describe neutral or positive intentions, which are better expressed using words like 打算 or 心意. The term often appears in contexts where someone is suspicious of another person's hidden agenda.
Examples
What exactly is his intention for doing this?
Don't think I don't know you have bad intentions.
Related words
Common phrases
with ulterior motives
harboring evil intentions
Common mistake
Do not use this word to describe a simple plan or a neutral goal, as it sounds accusatory and implies the person is plotting something harmful.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
