jam1 him2陰險阴险
Jyutpingjam1 him2
Yaleyām hím
Definition
Insidious, sinister, or treacherous, especially when pretending to be friendly while harboring malice.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Describes someone who hides their true, malicious intentions behind a friendly or harmless facade. It is a strong condemnation of character often used to warn others about someone who is untrustworthy or manipulative. Unlike simply being mean, this implies a calculated and deceptive nature.
Examples
He is a very sinister person, don't ever trust him.
Why are you so treacherous, playing so many dirty tricks behind my back?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 險, which usually refers to physical danger or a risky situation. While 陰險 involves danger, it is strictly about a person's personality and hidden motives rather than an external hazard.
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.
