pong4 mun4 zo2 dou6旁門左道旁门左道
Jyutpingpong4 mun4 zo2 dou6
Yalepòhng mùhn jó douh
Definition
Dishonest, underhanded, or devious methods; heterodox practices.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong moral judgment, implying that the methods used are not only dishonest but also unconventional or illegitimate. It is frequently used to criticize someone who seeks shortcuts or unfair advantages instead of working hard through proper channels. The term often appears in contexts involving business, academic integrity, or personal conduct.
Examples
He is always thinking of underhanded ways to cheat people out of money.
Don't pick up any shady tricks when doing business.
Related words
Common phrases
to pick up some shady tricks
to devise devious schemes
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a neutral term for 'creative' or 'alternative' methods, but it is strictly negative. It should never be used to describe innovative or clever solutions that are ethically sound.
Grammar color guide
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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.
