dou3 hang4 jik6 si1倒行逆施
Jyutpingdou3 hang4 jik6 si1
Yaledou hàhng yihk sī
Definition
To do things against the norm, the trend, or popular opinion.
writtenpeopleother
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of disapproval and is typically reserved for criticizing authority figures or organizations that ignore public sentiment. It implies a deliberate choice to act in a way that is regressive or counterproductive to the collective good. Because of its heavy, formal tone, it is rarely used to describe minor personal mistakes or trivial disagreements.
Examples
Their policy is simply going against the grain.
Why do you have to act against the common interest and make everyone so unhappy?
Related words
Common phrases
a policy that goes against the popular will
to behave in a way that defies common sense or public opinion
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple description of doing something wrong, but it specifically refers to actions that defy established norms or the popular will. Using it to describe a simple error or a personal habit will sound overly dramatic and unnatural.
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.
