ming4 coeng1 am3 zin3明槍暗箭明枪暗箭
Jyutpingming4 coeng1 am3 zin3
Yalemìhng chēung am jin
Definition
Open and hidden attacks, both overt and covert.
neutralpeoplework
How it's used
This idiom describes a situation where someone faces both overt hostility and covert sabotage. It is frequently used to characterize toxic office environments or intense political rivalries where one must be vigilant against threats from all directions. Unlike simple insults, it implies a strategic, ongoing conflict.
Examples
There are always open and hidden attacks in the workplace, you need to be careful.
Related words
Common phrases
impossible to defend against all attacks
full of open and hidden attacks
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple description of a physical fight, but it is strictly a metaphor for interpersonal conflict or social maneuvering. It is not used to describe actual combat with weapons.
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.
