cuk1 sau2 doi6 bai6束手待斃束手待毙
Jyutpingcuk1 sau2 doi6 bai6
Yalechūk sáu doih baih
Definition
To tie one's own hands and wait for death; to resign oneself to defeat without making any effort.
writtenother
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of urgency and often serves as a call to action to prevent a negative outcome. It is a formal idiom that contrasts sharply with the casual nature of everyday Cantonese, making it effective for emphasizing the gravity of a situation. Use it when you want to criticize someone for being passive or defeatist in the face of a crisis.
Examples
Facing this predicament, we cannot just sit back and wait for failure.
Are you planning to just sit there and wait for the end, or are you going to find a solution?
Related words
Common phrases
cannot just sit back and wait for failure
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal description of being tied up, but it is strictly metaphorical. It should not be used to describe someone who is physically restrained, as it specifically refers to a lack of mental or strategic effort.
Grammar color guide
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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.
