wai5 jin4諱言讳言

Jyutpingwai5 jin4

Yalewáih yìhn

動詞

Definition

To avoid speaking directly or telling the truth for fear of offending others.

writtencommunicationpeople

How it's used

This word carries a formal or literary tone that is rarely used in casual daily speech. It implies a deliberate choice to withhold information, often due to social pressure, fear of consequences, or a desire to maintain a facade. While it functions as a verb, it is more commonly encountered in written reports or serious discussions rather than casual conversation.

Examples

keoi5佢deoi3對jyu1於le1呢gin2件si6事jat1一zik6直wai5諱jin4言，m4唔hang2肯gong2講zan1真soeng3相。

He has been avoiding talking about this matter and refuses to tell the truth.

jau5有me1咩m4唔hoi1開sam1心zau6就gong2講laa1啦，m4唔sai2使wai5諱jin4言㗎。

If you are unhappy about something, just say it, no need to hold back.

Common phrases

wai5諱jin4言zan1真soeng3相

to conceal the truth

hou4毫mou4無wai5諱jin4言

to speak without reservation

Common mistake

Learners often confuse this with 避忌, which refers more broadly to avoiding certain topics or actions due to superstition or social taboos. 諱言 specifically focuses on the act of not speaking or concealing the truth about a specific subject.