haau2 laap6 ming4 muk6巧立名目
Jyutpinghaau2 laap6 ming4 muk6
Yaleháau laahp mìhng muhk
Definition
To invent all sorts of pretexts or excuses, usually for illegitimate purposes or to make money.
colloquialmoneywork
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong negative connotation, implying that the speaker views the actions as deceptive or corrupt. It is almost exclusively used in contexts involving financial exploitation or bureaucratic overreach. You will often hear it used when criticizing organizations or individuals who create unnecessary charges or rules to extract funds.
Examples
The company invented all sorts of pretexts to charge us many miscellaneous fees.
Are they trying to invent all sorts of pretexts to scam money?
Related words
Common phrases
to invent pretexts to charge fees
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a neutral way to say 'to create a category' or 'to name something', but it is strictly reserved for dishonest or manipulative behavior. Do not use it to describe legitimate administrative processes.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
