zuk1 gai1 goek3捉雞腳捉鸡脚
Jyutpingzuk1 gai1 goek3
Yalejūk gāi geuk
Definition
To catch someone in a mistake or compromising situation, or to catch them in an affair.
- to find someone's weakness or catch them in a mistake or affair
- slangto cheat or deceive buyers
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Originating from the difficulty of grabbing a chicken by its legs without it flapping about, this expression describes exposing someone's hidden deception or hypocrisy. It is specifically used when someone is caught in a lie or a dishonest scheme that they thought was well hidden. The imagery implies that once the feet are grabbed, the person is effectively immobilized and cannot escape the truth.
Examples
He lied for so long, and finally he was caught in the act.
Don't try to catch me out, I'm not lying.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply catching a chicken. It is strictly a metaphorical idiom for exposing deceit and cannot be used in a literal farming context.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
