tau1 lung4 zyun2 fung6偷龍轉鳳偷龙转凤
Jyutpingtau1 lung4 zyun2 fung6
Yaletāu lùhng jyún fuhng
Definition
To secretly swap one thing for another to deceive others; pull a fast one.
colloquialother
How it's used
Originating from traditional Chinese opera and literature, this idiom describes a sophisticated act of deception where a valuable item is replaced by a fake. It carries a slightly dramatic or literary flair, often used to describe elaborate schemes in business or crime. Unlike simple words for cheating, it implies a level of planning and stealth that makes the switch difficult to detect.
Examples
They want to pull a switcheroo and swap out the real item.
Who dares to secretly swap things right under my nose?
Related words
Common phrases
using a switcheroo tactic
Common mistake
Avoid using this for simple mistakes or minor lies, as it specifically implies a deliberate, calculated substitution of one object for another. It is not used for general dishonesty.
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.
