mou4 dik1 fong3 ci2無的放矢无的放矢
Jyutpingmou4 dik1 fong3 ci2
Yalemòuh dīk fong chí
Definition
To make groundless accusations or attack someone without basing it on facts.
neutralcommunicationpeople
How it's used
This idiom originates from the classical Chinese concept of shooting an arrow without a target, implying a lack of purpose or basis. It is used to criticize someone for making accusations or criticisms that are completely disconnected from facts. While it sounds slightly more formal than everyday slang, it is frequently used in serious arguments or when calling out someone for spreading misinformation.
Examples
Don't make groundless accusations here, you need evidence when you speak.
He is always making baseless claims, which makes everyone feel very resentful towards him.
Related words
Common phrases
making groundless accusations recklessly
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with simply lying or being wrong. It specifically refers to the act of attacking or criticizing someone without any factual foundation, rather than just stating a falsehood.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
