bai1 goek3 aap3跛腳鴨跛脚鸭
Jyutpingbai1 goek3 aap3
Yalebāi geuk aap
Definition
Lame duck; an official, administration, or person who has lost influence or financial standing.
- an official or administration that has lost power or influence
- slanga person who has suffered major investment losses and lacks assets
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Borrowed directly from the English political term, this expression is used almost exclusively in news, political commentary, or serious discussion. It carries a strong sense of political impotence and lack of authority. While it can metaphorically describe someone who has lost their power or influence in a social group, it is rarely used for ordinary people in casual conversation.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
He has been a lame duck for a long time, and his policies just cannot move forward.
Do you think this government is still a lame duck?
Related words
Common phrases
to become a lame duck
the government is a lame duck
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who has an actual physical injury or a limp, as that would be offensive and confusing. Use 跛腳 or 腳痛 instead for physical conditions.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
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.
