sai2 dai2洗底
Jyutpingsai2 dai2
Yalesái dái
Definition
To clear one's identity or background; to cover up or wipe away past misdeeds.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Originating from triad slang, this term describes the act of erasing or covering up a criminal or disreputable past to gain social acceptance. It is now frequently used in broader contexts, such as politicians or public figures attempting to rebrand themselves after a scandal. It carries a cynical tone, implying that the person's past is inherently problematic and cannot truly be erased.
Examples
He wants to clear his past and start over, so don't bring up those old things again.
Do you really think you can clear your background just by moving abroad?
Related words
Common phrases
to completely clear one's background
to attempt to clear one's record
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal washing or cleaning, such as washing clothes or dishes. It is strictly metaphorical and specifically refers to one's reputation, criminal record, or personal history.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
