maau4 tau4矛頭矛头
Jyutpingmaau4 tau4
Yalemàauh tàuh
Definition
The spearhead of a weapon; the main direction of an attack, criticism, or discussion.
- the sharp tip of a spear or ancient long-handled weapon
- figurativethe focus or direction of an attack, criticism, or investigation
neutralcommunicationpeople
How it's used
Focusing on the direction of blame or scrutiny, this term is almost exclusively used in abstract contexts rather than literal combat. It functions as a powerful metaphor for shifting the target of an argument or investigation. When someone changes their focus to a new target, it is common to describe them as turning the spearhead toward that person or issue.
Examples
He directed his criticism toward the company's senior management.
Why are you pointing the finger at me?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal weapons or physical tools, as it is strictly used for figurative attacks like criticism, accusations, or investigative focus.
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.
