zi1 sai2支使
Jyutpingzi1 sai2
Yalejī sái
Definition
To order, direct, or send someone to do something.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of annoyance or resentment, implying that the person being ordered around feels treated like a servant or subordinate. It is almost exclusively used when the speaker feels the command is unreasonable or bossy. Unlike neutral verbs for asking or telling someone to do something, this word highlights the power dynamic and the speaker's irritation.
Examples
He is always ordering me to do this and that.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this word in professional settings or when making a polite request, as it sounds condescending and rude. It is not a neutral way to say ask or tell.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
