tiu1 but6 lei4 gaan3挑撥離間挑拨离间
Jyutpingtiu1 but6 lei4 gaan3
Yaletīu buht lèih gaan
Definition
To deliberately sow discord, alienate people from each other, or stir up trouble to create conflict.
neutralpeoplecommunication
How it's used
Often used to describe someone who acts as a catalyst for interpersonal conflict by spreading rumors or manipulating information. Unlike simple gossiping, this term implies a calculated intent to break existing bonds or friendships. It carries a strong negative connotation and is frequently used to warn others about a manipulative person.
Examples
He loves sowing discord behind people's backs, making everyone unhappy.
Don't listen to his nonsense, he is clearly trying to stir up trouble between us.
Related words
Common phrases
specifically prone to sowing discord
attempting to sow discord
Common mistake
Learners sometimes mistake this for simple lying, but the core meaning specifically involves damaging the relationship between two or more other parties rather than just deceiving someone.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
