wai4 so2 juk6 wai4為所欲為为所欲为
Definition
To do whatever one wants; to act willfully and do as one pleases without regard for others.
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong negative connotation, implying that someone is acting in an arrogant or lawless manner. It is typically used to criticize people who abuse their power, wealth, or freedom to disregard social norms or the rights of others. Unlike simply saying 鍾意做乜就做乜, which can be neutral, this term specifically highlights a lack of self-restraint and a disregard for consequences.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often use this phrase to describe a positive sense of freedom, such as enjoying a holiday, but it is almost exclusively used to describe selfish or destructive behavior. Avoid using it to describe your own actions unless you are intentionally being self-deprecating or dramatic.
Grammar color guide
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.
