zi2 song1 maa6 waai4指桑罵槐指桑骂槐
Jyutpingzi2 song1 maa6 waai4
Yalejí sōng mah wàaih
Definition
To criticize someone indirectly; to point at the mulberry tree and curse the locust tree.
colloquialcommunicationpeople
How it's used
This idiom describes a passive aggressive communication style where the speaker avoids direct confrontation by attacking a third party or a general situation. It is frequently used in office politics or family disputes when someone is too afraid or too polite to address the real target directly. The tone is almost always accusatory, implying that the speaker is being cowardly or manipulative.
Examples
He is just beating around the bush to criticize you.
Related words
Common phrases
likes to criticize indirectly
criticizing indirectly again
Common mistake
Learners often use this to mean general complaining, but it specifically requires a target who is not the person being addressed. It is not used for simple criticism or venting frustration.
Grammar color guide
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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.
