zi6 baa2 zi6 wai4自把自為自把自为
Jyutpingzi6 baa2 zi6 wai4
Yalejih bá jih wàih
Definition
To act on one's own initiative without consulting others, doing only as one pleases.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Carries a strong negative connotation of being selfish or acting without consulting others who are affected by the decision. It is often used to criticize someone who oversteps their authority or ignores team consensus. The phrase implies a lack of consideration for social harmony or collective responsibility.
Examples
Don't be so self-willed when you work; ask for others' opinions first.
He is always doing things his own way, completely ignoring our feelings.
Related words
Common phrases
always acting on one's own initiative without consulting others
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for simply being independent or self-reliant. However, it specifically highlights a lack of respect for others' input, making it an accusation rather than a compliment.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
