kyun4 goek3拳腳拳脚
Jyutpingkyun4 goek3
Yalekyùhn geuk
Definition
Fists and feet; by extension, ambitious plans or abilities that one wishes to display.
- fists and feet
- figurativeambitious plans, abilities, or things one wants to achieve
colloquialworkdescriptions
How it's used
Literally referring to fists and feet, this term is almost exclusively used in the idiom 大展拳腳. It functions as a metaphor for having the space or opportunity to fully utilize one's skills and ambition. You will rarely hear it used outside of this specific four character phrase.
Examples
He wants to show what he can do at this company.
Do you think he has a chance to really show his potential?
Related words
Common phrases
to show one's full potential
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe actual physical fighting or martial arts, as that would sound unnatural or confusing. It is strictly reserved for professional or creative contexts where someone is given the freedom to perform.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
