daap6 goek3 sek6踏腳石踏脚石
Jyutpingdaap6 goek3 sek6
Yaledaahp geuk sehk
Definition
Stepping-stone; a means to progress or achieve success.
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
Focuses heavily on the instrumental nature of a person or situation used to reach a higher goal. It carries a cynical or calculating tone when applied to people, implying that the person is being exploited for personal advancement rather than valued for their own sake.
Measure word
faai3塊faiExamples
He treats this job as a stepping-stone, hoping to change careers later.
Related words
Common phrases
treat as a stepping-stone
use as a stepping-stone
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a literal stone you step on in a stream or garden, as the term is almost exclusively used in a metaphorical sense for career or social climbing.
Grammar color guide
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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.
