gu3 zo2 jau6 ji4 jin4 taa1顧左右而言他顾左右而言他
Jyutpinggu3 zo2 jau6 ji4 jin4 taa1
Yalegu jó yauh yìh yìhn tā
Definition
To speak evasively; to dodge the topic by talking about something else.
colloquialcommunication
How it's used
This idiom is a formal literary phrase that is frequently used in spoken Cantonese to describe someone deliberately dodging a direct question. It carries a slightly critical tone, implying that the person is being dishonest or uncomfortable with the topic at hand. While it is a four-character idiom, it fits naturally into casual conversation when you want to call out someone's evasive behavior.
Examples
I asked him why he was late, but he actually started talking about irrelevant things to avoid the question.
Don't try to dodge the question, can you just answer me directly?
Related words
Common phrases
to speak evasively
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple way to say 'changing the subject', but it specifically implies a defensive or deceptive intent to avoid answering a direct inquiry.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
