je5 sam1 gaa1野心家
Jyutpingje5 sam1 gaa1
Yaleyéh sām gā
Definition
An ambitious person, careerist, or schemer who seeks power or status.
neutralpeoplework
How it's used
Carries a strong negative connotation, implying that the person is ruthless or overly calculating in their pursuit of power or success. It is rarely used to describe someone with healthy ambition, which would instead be described as 有大志 or 有抱負. The term is frequently encountered in political commentary or when discussing workplace power struggles.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He is simply a careerist.
Common phrases
political careerist
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe someone who is simply hardworking or goal-oriented, as it suggests a lack of moral scruples or a selfish obsession with status.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
