tai2 cyun1睇穿
Jyutpingtai2 cyun1
Yaletái chyūn
Definition
To see through someone; to detect their secrets, intentions, or tricks.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
Focuses on the moment of realization when someone's hidden motives or deceptive behavior becomes transparent. It often carries a sense of intellectual superiority or relief, as the speaker is no longer being fooled. It is frequently used in contexts involving social manipulation or uncovering lies.
Examples
You think you can trick me? I saw through you a long time ago.
He is very smart and saw through that scam at a glance.
Related words
Common phrases
to see through something at a single glance
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 睇透, which implies a more philosophical or existential understanding of a person's entire character or life, whereas 睇穿 is specific to identifying a particular secret or trick.
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.
