tai4 seoi2提水

Jyutpingtai4 seoi2

Yaletàih séui

動詞

Definition

To secretly give hints or tips.

colloquialcommunicationdaily actions

How it's used

Originating from the idea of secretly passing water or supplies, this term implies a clandestine or helpful nudge that is meant to be kept between the participants. It is frequently used in contexts like exams, games, or social situations where someone is struggling and needs a subtle push in the right direction. The act of doing it is often framed as a favor or a way to help someone avoid embarrassment.

Examples

keoi5佢gin3見nei5你m4唔sik1識daap3答，dak6特dang1登tai4提seoi2水bei2畀nei5你。

He saw you didn't know the answer, so he gave you a hint on purpose.

nei5你zan6陣gaan1間gei3記dak1得tai4提seoi2水bei2畀ngo5我，m4唔hou2好bei2畀jan4人faat3發jin6現。

Remember to give me a hint later, don't let anyone find out.

Common phrases

tau1偷tau1偷tai4提seoi2水

to give a hint secretly

tai4提seoi2水bei2畀jan4人

to give someone a hint

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with simply giving advice or instructions. The term specifically carries a connotation of secrecy or doing it behind someone else's back, so it is inappropriate to use when giving open, formal guidance.