jyu5 jan4 hau2 sat6予人口實予人口实
Jyutpingjyu5 jan4 hau2 sat6
Yaleyúh yàhn háu saht
Definition
To give others a pretext, cause, or excuse to criticize, blame, or gossip.
writtenpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This idiom carries a formal or slightly literary tone, often appearing in professional or serious contexts where one warns another to maintain high standards. It implies that a mistake or oversight serves as ammunition for critics or rivals to attack one's reputation. While it is a four-character phrase, it is frequently used in spoken Cantonese to emphasize the importance of being beyond reproach.
Examples
Be careful when doing things, don't give others an excuse to criticize you.
By doing it this way, aren't you clearly giving others a handle to attack you?
Related words
Common phrases
to provide grounds for criticism
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple way to say 'to give an excuse', but it specifically refers to providing grounds for negative judgment or gossip rather than just a reason for an action.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
