ceoi1 fu1 laai1 nau2摧枯拉朽
Jyutpingceoi1 fu1 laai1 nau2
Yalechēui fū lāai náu
Definition
To easily destroy something that is already weak or in ruins.
writtendescriptions
How it's used
This idiom is borrowed from classical Chinese and carries a strong, literary tone that is rarely used in casual daily speech. It describes a force so powerful that it meets no resistance, similar to how easily wind breaks withered branches. You will mostly encounter it in formal writing, news reports, or dramatic commentary regarding sports or military conflicts.
Examples
Their defense is simply crumbling like dry wood.
He won this match with overwhelming ease.
Related words
Common phrases
with the momentum of crushing dry wood
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe physical objects that are literally rotting or broken. It is strictly a metaphorical expression for overwhelming power or a sudden, total collapse of an opponent's position.
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.
