bik1 fu2 tiu3 coeng4逼虎跳牆逼虎跳墙
Jyutpingbik1 fu2 tiu3 coeng4
Yalebīk fú tiu chèuhng
Definition
To back someone into a corner and force them to react in an desperate or extreme way.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This idiom describes a situation where someone is pushed to such an extreme that they resort to desperate or aggressive measures to survive. It implies that the aggressor has underestimated the target's capacity for retaliation. It is often used as a warning to avoid creating a lose-lose scenario by being overly demanding or oppressive.
Examples
Don't push him into a corner, he will fight back.
Why did you force his hand and make things so difficult for everyone?
Related words
Common phrases
don't push someone too far
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with general pressure, but it specifically refers to creating a desperate situation where the target has no choice but to lash out. It is not used for simple stress or heavy workloads.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
