dou3 tau4 loi4到頭來到头来
Jyutpingdou3 tau4 loi4
Yaledou tàuh lòih
Definition
In the end; ultimately; after some twists or changes in the course of events.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Use this phrase to highlight a contrast between initial expectations or plans and the actual outcome. It carries a sense of irony or disappointment, suggesting that the final result was not what was originally intended or promised. It is frequently used to summarize a situation that did not go as planned despite significant effort or talk.
Examples
He talked a big game, but in the end he didn't do anything.
Related words
Common phrases
to end up with nothing
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a simple chronological sequence of events. It specifically requires a sense of twist or a deviation from the original plan, unlike the neutral term 最後 which just means last or final.
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.
