zi2 dung1 daa2 sai1指東打西指东打西
Jyutpingzi2 dung1 daa2 sai1
Yalejí dūng dá sāi
Definition
To feint in one direction while attacking in another; to use distraction techniques to set up a trap.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
Originally a military strategy, this idiom is now commonly used in daily life to describe someone who is being intentionally evasive or manipulative. It implies that the person is creating a false focus to hide their true intentions or to lead others away from the actual issue. It carries a slightly negative connotation of dishonesty or lack of transparency.
Examples
He is always using distraction tactics to try and scam our money.
Why do you need to beat around the bush? Just say what you mean.
Related words
Common phrases
distraction tactics
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 聲東擊西, which is specifically a military tactic of feigning an attack in one direction to strike in another. While they share similar roots, 指東打西 is more frequently applied to interpersonal communication and deceptive behavior in social or professional settings.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
