jan4 jin4 ho2 wai3人言可畏
Jyutpingjan4 jin4 ho2 wai3
Yaleyàhn yìhn hó wai
Definition
Public opinion and gossip can be terrifying; people's words are to be feared.
writtenpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This idiom carries a heavy, cautionary tone, often used to justify why someone chooses to remain silent or keep a low profile. It highlights the social pressure and potential damage caused by collective opinion rather than just individual criticism. It is frequently invoked when discussing sensitive personal matters that could be distorted by public scrutiny.
Examples
People's words can be terrifying, you really need to be careful with what you do.
Related words
Common phrases
deeply feel that public opinion is terrifying
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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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.
