fu2 lok6 ping4 joeng4 bei6 hyun2 hei1虎落平陽被犬欺虎落平阳被犬欺
Jyutpingfu2 lok6 ping4 joeng4 bei6 hyun2 hei1
Yalefú lohk pìhng yèuhng beih hyún hēi
Definition
Even a powerful person can be bullied or humiliated when they lose their position or influence.
colloquialpeople
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong sense of pity or warning regarding the fragility of power and status. It is typically used to describe someone who was once powerful or respected but has fallen on hard times and is now being bullied by those previously considered inferior. The tone is often reflective or cautionary rather than purely descriptive.
Examples
He used to be a big boss, but now he is suffering indignities after losing his status.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal description of animals, but it is exclusively used in a metaphorical sense for human social hierarchy. It is not appropriate to use this to describe simple bad luck or minor inconveniences.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Particle
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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.
