cau1 hau6 goek3抽後腳抽后脚
Jyutpingcau1 hau6 goek3
Yalechāu hauh geuk
Definition
To use someone's own words against them in a subsequent argument or attack.
colloquialcommunicationpeople
How it's used
This expression carries a strong negative connotation of being petty or opportunistic in an argument. It implies that the person is not addressing the current issue fairly but is instead digging up past statements to undermine their opponent. It is frequently used in workplace or social settings where someone feels blindsided by a colleague or friend.
Examples
Stop picking on what I said to attack me all the time.
He is using someone's past words against them again, it is really annoying.
Related words
Common phrases
specializing in using past words to attack others
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with general criticism or backstabbing, but it specifically refers to the act of weaponizing someone's own previous words or actions against them. It is not used for general betrayal or simply talking behind someone's back.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
