gin3 mei4 zi1 zoek3見微知著见微知著
Jyutpinggin3 mei4 zi1 zoek3
Yalegin mèih jī jeuk
Definition
To foresee how things will develop from a tiny clue or sign.
writtendescriptionsother
How it's used
This idiom is typically used to praise someone's sharp insight or analytical ability. It implies a high level of experience or wisdom, as it describes the capacity to predict a complex outcome from a seemingly insignificant detail. It is more formal than everyday speech but is frequently used in professional or serious discussions.
Examples
He can see the trend from small signs; he knew the market would fall at a glance.
Related words
Common phrases
possess the ability to foresee trends from small clues
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple observation, but it specifically carries a connotation of predictive power or wisdom. It is not used for trivial matters like noticing someone has a new haircut.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
