zeng1精

Jyutpingzeng1

Yalejēng

形容詞Common

Definition

Smart, clever, or intelligent, sometimes with a connotation of being cunning or sly.

colloquialpeopledescriptions

How it's used

Carries a dual nature ranging from positive intelligence to negative craftiness depending on the context. When describing someone as 醒目, it highlights their quick wit and ability to handle situations well. However, it can also imply someone is overly calculating or untrustworthy, similar to being sly or manipulative.

Examples

nei5你go3個jan4人gam3咁zeng1精，jat1一ding6定nam2諗dou3到baan6辦faat3法laa1啦。

You are so clever, you will definitely think of a way.

keoi5佢hou2好zeng1精㗎，cin1千kei4祈m4唔hou2好bei2俾keoi5佢aak3呃dou3到。

He is very cunning, make sure you don't get tricked by him.

Common phrases

zau2走zeng1精min2面

to take shortcuts or be opportunistic

zing1精ling4靈

lively and clever

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with the Mandarin usage where it can mean energetic or spirited. In Cantonese, it almost exclusively refers to mental sharpness or social cunning.