zaa1 gai1 goek3揸雞腳揸鸡脚
Jyutpingzaa1 gai1 goek3
Yalejā gāi geuk
Definition
To catch someone's weaknesses, find their vulnerabilities, or look for flaws.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
This idiom literally refers to holding a chicken's foot, which is a small and slippery target, making it difficult to grasp firmly. It is used metaphorically to describe someone who is obsessively looking for minor mistakes or weaknesses in others to use against them. It carries a negative connotation of being petty or overly critical.
Examples
Stop looking for my flaws all the time, it's so annoying.
Related words
Common phrases
deliberately looking for flaws
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal actions involving food. It is strictly a figurative expression for finding fault and should not be used in a culinary context.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
