jin4 haa6 zi1 ji3言下之意
Jyutpingjin4 haa6 zi1 ji3
Yaleyìhn hah jī yi
Definition
The underlying message; an implied meaning that is not explicitly stated.
writtencommunicationdescriptions
How it's used
This expression is used to highlight the subtext or the unspoken agenda behind someone's statement. It functions like a formal bridge between a surface remark and the actual intent, often appearing in analytical or slightly critical contexts. While it is a four-character idiom, it is frequently used in spoken Cantonese to point out when someone is being indirect or passive-aggressive.
Examples
He said he was busy, implying he wanted to turn down the date.
Have you figured out the underlying meaning of what he said yet?
Related words
Common phrases
to catch the underlying meaning
the implication is
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple synonym of meaning, but it specifically refers to the hidden or implied message rather than the literal definition of a word. It is not used to explain vocabulary, but rather to interpret social cues or intentions.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
