geoi2 jat1 faan2 saam1舉一反三举一反三
Jyutpinggeoi2 jat1 faan2 saam1
Yalegéui yāt fáan sāam
Definition
To deduce many similar cases or things from a single instance.
neutralpeople
How it's used
This idiom is frequently used to praise someone for their quick wit and ability to grasp underlying principles rather than just memorizing facts. It implies a high level of intellectual flexibility and is often used in educational or professional settings to describe an ideal learner. It is a four character idiom that fits naturally into both formal and informal speech.
Examples
He is very clever, he can deduce the rest after being taught once.
Related words
Common phrases
able to deduce many things from one
know how to infer by analogy
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple synonym of smart, but it specifically describes the process of logical extrapolation. It is not used to describe someone who is merely quick at memorizing, but rather someone who can apply logic to new, unseen scenarios.
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.
