tam3 gwai2 sik6 dau6 fu6０氹鬼食豆腐
Jyutpingtam3 gwai2 sik6 dau6 fu6
Yaletam gwái sihk dauh fuh
Definition
A feeble attempt to trick someone, or to lure someone into an obvious trap.
colloquialslang
How it's used
This idiom paints a vivid picture of a ghost being lured into eating tofu, which is impossible since ghosts are incorporeal and tofu is soft and mundane. It is used to dismiss someone's transparent or clumsy attempt at deception. The tone is dismissive and implies that the speaker finds the trickster's effort insulting to their intelligence.
Related words
Common phrases
trying to pull a fast one
Common mistake
Do not use this phrase to describe a clever or sophisticated scam. It is strictly reserved for traps or lies that are so obvious they are laughable.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
