zo2 jau6 fung4 jyun4左右逢源
Definition
To handle matters smoothly or navigate relationships skillfully to please both sides and gain advantage.
How it's used
Originally describing someone who has mastered a skill so thoroughly that they can apply it effortlessly in any situation, the term has evolved to describe someone who is exceptionally tactful in social or political settings. It carries a nuance of being able to maintain good relationships with opposing parties simultaneously. While it can imply a positive trait of being adaptable, it sometimes carries a subtle hint of being overly calculating or manipulative.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple description of being lucky or opportunistic, but it specifically emphasizes the skill and effort required to balance conflicting interests without offending anyone.
Grammar color guide
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.
