jau5 ji3 mou4 ji3有意無意有意无意
Jyutpingjau5 ji3 mou4 ji3
Yaleyáuh yi mòuh yi
Definition
Whether intentionally or unintentionally; by accident or design.
colloquialdescriptionsdaily actions
How it's used
This phrase is used to describe an action where the speaker is indifferent to the actor's true intent or simply cannot determine it. It carries a slightly detached or observant tone, often implying that the outcome is the same regardless of whether the action was deliberate. It is frequently used when someone suspects a hidden motive but chooses not to confront the person directly.
Examples
He brought up that matter either on purpose or by accident, making everyone so awkward.
Are you trying to avoid me, whether intentionally or not?
Related words
Common phrases
in the process of doing something either intentionally or unintentionally
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the phrase 無心之失, which specifically refers to a mistake made without bad intentions. 有意無意 is neutral regarding the outcome and focuses on the ambiguity of the actor's state of mind.
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.
