laa4 zaa2 je5拿渣嘢
Jyutpinglaa4 zaa2 je5
Yalelàh já yéh
Definition
Dirty tricks, underhanded methods, or dodgy dealings.
colloquialpeopleslang
How it's used
This term carries a strong sense of moral disapproval and implies that the actions are sneaky, unfair, or dishonorable. It is frequently used to describe workplace politics or competitive situations where someone breaks the rules or acts in bad faith. The word 拿渣 itself originally refers to something messy or dirty, which is why it is used metaphorically for corrupt or sleazy behavior.
Examples
He is always pulling dirty tricks behind people's backs.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being messy or untidy, which is 邋遢. While they share the same characters in some contexts, 拿渣嘢 specifically refers to the abstract concept of dirty tactics or shady schemes rather than physical dirtiness.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
