hon3 fung1 sai2 to4看風使舵看风使舵
Jyutpinghon3 fung1 sai2 to4
Yalehon fūng sái tòh
Definition
To adapt to circumstances; to act according to the situation or how the wind blows.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
This idiom describes someone who adjusts their stance or behavior based on shifting circumstances to protect their own interests. It carries a slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of principle or opportunistic behavior rather than genuine flexibility. While it can be used to describe survival skills, it is rarely a compliment.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with positive adaptability. Because it implies changing one's position to suit the strongest party, it is viewed as calculating and insincere rather than simply being versatile or open-minded.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
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.
