jat1 jin4 ji5 bai3一言以蔽
Jyutpingjat1 jin4 ji5 bai3
Yaleyāt yìhn yíh bai
Definition
In a word; to sum up in a single phrase.
writtencommunication
How it's used
This idiom is almost exclusively used with the suffix 之 to form the complete phrase 一言以蔽之. It functions as a formal, literary way to announce a summary or a conclusion, often used when someone wants to cut through unnecessary detail. While it sounds quite intellectual, it is frequently used in casual conversation to show that the speaker is about to provide a concise, punchy takeaway.
Examples
This matter can really be summed up in one word, it is very complicated.
Can you summarize it for me in one word?
Common phrases
In a word
Common mistake
Learners often forget to add 之 at the end, which makes the phrase sound incomplete to a native speaker. It is also important to note that this is a literary idiom, so using it too often in very casual settings can make you sound like you are trying to be overly dramatic or academic.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
