se2 gan6 kau4 jyun5捨近求遠舍近求远
Jyutpingse2 gan6 kau4 jyun5
Yalesé gahn kàuh yúhn
Definition
To reject what is near at hand and seek what is far away; to make things unnecessarily complicated.
neutralother
How it's used
This idiom is used to criticize someone for choosing an inefficient or overly complex method when a simpler, closer alternative is available. It carries a tone of mild frustration or advice, often directed at someone who is wasting time or effort unnecessarily. Unlike some other idioms, it is frequently used in casual conversation to point out a lack of common sense in planning.
Examples
You are making things complicated by doing it this way.
Why do you have to go all the way over there to buy it?
Related words
Common phrases
it is simply making things unnecessarily complicated
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
