fung1 baai2 lau5風擺柳风摆柳

Jyutpingfung1 baai2 lau5

Yalefūng báai láuh

Definition

To be indecisive, lack definite views of one's own, or sway with the wind like a willow.

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How it's used

This idiom uses the imagery of a willow tree swaying in the wind to describe a person who lacks a firm backbone or consistent principles. It carries a slightly critical or mocking tone, suggesting that the person is easily swayed by others or changes their mind whenever the situation shifts. It is often used to advise someone to be more assertive.

Examples

keoi5佢go3個jan4人hou2好ci5似fung1風baai2擺lau5柳gam3咁，seng4成jat6日dou1都mou5冇zyu2主gin3見。

He is like a willow in the wind, always lacking his own opinions.

nei5你zou6做jan4人m4唔hou2好gam3咁fung1風baai2擺lau5柳，jiu3要jau5有zi6自gei2己laap6立coeng4場aa4呀。

Don't be so indecisive; you need to have your own stance.

Common phrases

hou2好ci5似fung1風baai2擺lau5柳

to be like a willow in the wind

Common mistake

Do not use this to describe physical movement or dancing, even if someone is swaying gracefully. It is strictly reserved for describing a personality trait related to indecisiveness or a lack of conviction.