maang1 ce1 bin1掹車邊掹车边
Jyutpingmaang1 ce1 bin1
Yalemāang chē bīn
Definition
To barely pass or meet a standard; to just scrape through.
colloquialworkschool
How it's used
Originating from the image of someone dangerously clinging to the side of a moving vehicle to get a free ride, this expression highlights the precarious nature of achieving a goal. It implies that the success was not due to competence or effort, but rather luck or a very narrow margin. Use it when describing results that are just enough to qualify or pass, but certainly not impressive.
Examples
He barely passes his exams every time.
You just barely scraped into university, what will you do later?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply 'lucky' in a general sense. It specifically refers to meeting a threshold or requirement, like passing a grade or getting into a program, rather than winning a prize or finding money.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
