zo6 sau1 jyu4 jan4 zi1 lei6坐收漁人之利坐收渔人之利
Definition
To reap the spoils of another's conflict; to profit from the dispute of others.
How it's used
This idiom is a classic literary reference that has become deeply embedded in everyday Cantonese speech. It is frequently used in office politics or competitive situations where a third party waits for two rivals to exhaust each other before stepping in to claim the prize. Unlike some formal idioms that sound stiff, this one is very common in casual conversation to describe opportunistic behavior.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple way to say 'winning', but it specifically implies a passive or opportunistic strategy where you do not participate in the conflict itself. It carries a slightly negative or cynical connotation, so avoid using it to describe a fair or earned victory.
Grammar color guide
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.
