tau1 gai1偷雞偷鸡
Jyutpingtau1 gai1
Yaletāu gāi
Definition
To slack off, cut corners, or do something sneaky to gain small advantages or convenience.
colloquialworkdaily actions
How it's used
Focuses on the act of cutting corners or taking a break when one is supposed to be working or following rules. It carries a sense of petty opportunism rather than malicious intent. It is frequently used in workplace settings to describe someone who is not fully committed to their tasks.
Examples
The boss stepped away, so he immediately snuck in some time to play on his phone.
Related words
Common phrases
to sneak off early
to engage in petty dishonest activities
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal stealing or chicken farming. It is strictly a figurative expression for slacking off or finding a shortcut to avoid effort.
Grammar color guide
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Adjective
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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.
