zak1 zak1 bok3側側膊侧侧膊
Jyutpingzak1 zak1 bok3
Yalejāk jāk bok
Definition
To shirk responsibility or slide by quietly to avoid getting noticed or caught.
colloquialworkdaily actions
How it's used
The phrase originates from the Cantonese slang expression 側側膊，唔多覺, which translates to "turning one's shoulder slightly so it is not easily noticed." It specifically describes the act of slipping away from a duty or avoiding a task by acting as if one is busy or unaware of the situation. It carries a negative connotation of being lazy or cunning in a workplace or social setting.
Examples
Stop trying to shirk your duties all the time, hurry up and finish the report.
Related words
Common phrases
To shirk responsibility and hope no one notices
Common mistake
Do not use this to mean physically turning one's body to the side in a neutral context. It is strictly used to describe the psychological or behavioral act of avoiding responsibility or dodging a task.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
