gan1 mei5跟尾
Jyutpinggan1 mei5
Yalegān méih
Definition
To follow behind; to tail.
colloquialdaily actionspeople
How it's used
Focuses on the physical act of trailing someone closely, often implying a lack of independence or a slightly annoying persistence. It is frequently used to describe children or clingy individuals who refuse to leave someone alone. While it can be used neutrally, it often carries a connotation of being a shadow or a tagalong.
Examples
He loves to follow behind, just like a tagalong.
Related words
Common phrases
a sycophant or someone who blindly follows others
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the verb 跟隨, which is more formal and can be used in abstract contexts like following a trend or a rule. 跟尾 is strictly for physical movement and is almost exclusively used in informal, spoken settings.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
