ci2 lou6 bat1 tung1此路不通
Jyutpingci2 lou6 bat1 tung1
Yalechí louh bāt tūng
Definition
No thoroughfare or road closed; also used figuratively to describe an approach that does not work.
- road closed; no thoroughfare; no entry
- figurativedead end; a method, approach, or way of doing things that does not work
neutraltransportdaily actions
How it's used
While often seen on physical signs, this phrase is frequently used metaphorically to describe a plan or strategy that is doomed to fail. It carries a slightly formal or literary tone compared to purely colloquial expressions like 行唔通. Using it in conversation adds a sense of finality or definitive judgment about a situation.
Examples
The road ahead is closed, you can't go through.
If you use this method to solve it, it definitely won't work.
Related words
Common phrases
no thoroughfare ahead
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simple road signs like 掘頭路, which specifically refers to a dead end. 此路不通 implies the path is blocked or forbidden, whereas a dead end simply lacks an exit.
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.
