cin4 fu6 hau6 gai3前赴後繼前赴后继
Definition
To advance dauntlessly in wave upon wave, committing to a battle or cause one after another.
How it's used
This idiom is a formal four-character expression that describes a collective, persistent effort where one person follows immediately after another to achieve a goal. While it originates from military contexts, it is frequently used in modern Cantonese to describe people tackling a difficult task or queueing up for something popular. It carries a sense of heroic or relentless determination.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple description of a queue or a sequence of events. It specifically implies a high level of spirit, courage, or intense dedication, so it is inappropriate to use it for mundane activities like waiting for a bus or lining up for a routine appointment.
Grammar color guide
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.
