nau2 luk6 jam4扭六壬
Jyutpingnau2 luk6 jam4
Yalenáu luhk yàhm
Definition
To use every possible tactic, scheme, or measure to achieve one's goal.
colloquialother
How it's used
Originating from traditional Chinese divination practices, this idiom describes someone going to extreme lengths to solve a problem or achieve an objective. It carries a slightly cynical or weary tone, implying that the person is being overly crafty or manipulative rather than just hardworking. It is almost always used in the form 扭盡六壬 to emphasize the intensity of the effort.
Examples
He really pulled out all the stops just to get that position.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal reference to fortune telling or magic. It is strictly a metaphorical expression for strategic maneuvering or scheming, and using it to describe actual spiritual rituals will sound very strange to native speakers.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
