gin3 jan4 gong2 jan4 waa2 gin3 gwai2 gong2 gwai2 waa2見人講人話，見鬼講鬼話见人讲人话，见鬼讲鬼话
Jyutpinggin3 jan4 gong2 jan4 waa2 gin3 gwai2 gong2 gwai2 waa2
Yalegin yàhn góng yàhn wá gin gwái góng gwái wá
Definition
To adapt one's speech or behavior to please whoever one is with; to be two-faced or insincere.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong negative connotation of being insincere or manipulative. It describes someone who lacks a consistent personality or set of values, shifting their stance purely to gain favor or avoid conflict. It is frequently used to criticize people in professional or social settings who are perceived as being fake or overly sycophantic.
Examples
He really tells people what they want to hear, he is hard to trust.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a positive trait of being adaptable or diplomatic. However, it is almost exclusively used as a criticism for someone who is untrustworthy or lacks integrity.
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.
