ji5 jyu4 ngo5 zaa3爾虞我詐尔虞我诈
Jyutpingji5 jyu4 ngo5 zaa3
Yaleyíh yùh ngóh ja
Definition
To deceive and outwit each other; mutual deception and rivalry for personal gain.
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How it's used
This idiom describes a state of mutual distrust and tactical maneuvering where parties constantly try to deceive one another for personal gain. It is frequently used to describe high stakes environments like corporate politics or intense competition. Unlike simple lying, it implies a complex, ongoing cycle of strategy and counter strategy.
Examples
The business world is full of deception, you really have to be careful when doing business.
They are outwitting each other while working together, how can they build any trust?
Related words
Common phrases
an environment of mutual deception
full of outwitting and deception
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple verb meaning to lie, but it specifically describes a reciprocal, ongoing relationship between two or more parties. It cannot be used to describe a one-off lie told by a single person.
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.
