sik6 pin1 mun4食偏門食偏门
Jyutpingsik6 pin1 mun4
Yalesihk pīn mùhn
Definition
To make a living through unconventional, shady, or illegal means.
colloquialworkmoney
How it's used
Refers specifically to earning money through illegal or morally grey activities, such as gambling rings, smuggling, or unlicensed operations. It carries a strong connotation of social stigma and danger, implying that the person is avoiding legitimate, honest employment. The term is rarely used in professional or formal settings and is mostly reserved for gossip or warnings.
Examples
He seems to be involved in shady business, always acting all mysterious.
You really shouldn't get into illegal work, it's very dangerous.
Related words
Common phrases
to make a living through illicit means
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply having a side job or a part-time job, which would be 兼職. Using this term implies criminal or illicit activity, so it is offensive if used to describe someone's legitimate hustle.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
