jing1 hyun2鷹犬鹰犬
Jyutpingjing1 hyun2
Yaleyīng hyún
Definition
Hawks and hounds, or figuratively, a lackey who does the dirty work for those in power.
- hawks and hounds used for hunting
- lackey; accomplice; servile follower who does evil for those in power
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Originally referring to hunting animals, this term has evolved into a highly derogatory label for people who act as submissive tools for corrupt authority. It carries a strong sense of moral condemnation, implying that the person has sacrificed their integrity to serve someone else's malicious agenda. It is rarely used in a literal sense in modern urban life, as hunting with hawks and hounds is not a common practice.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
They are just lackeys for the powerful, don't pay them any mind.
Related words
Common phrases
lackeys of the imperial court
lackeys of the powerful
Common mistake
Do not use this word to describe a loyal employee or a helpful assistant. It specifically implies a lack of moral agency and a servile, often harmful, devotion to a powerful master.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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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.
