haang4 faan1 zyun3 tau4行返轉頭行返转头
Jyutpinghaang4 faan1 zyun3 tau4
Yalehàahng fāan jyun tàuh
Definition
To turn back or walk back the way one came.
colloquialdaily actionstransport
How it's used
This phrase is a vivid way to describe retracing one's steps, often used when someone realizes they have forgotten something or taken a wrong turn. It emphasizes the physical act of reversing direction rather than just changing one's mind. The inclusion of 返 adds a sense of returning to a previous state or location.
Examples
We went the wrong way, let's turn back.
Why did you suddenly turn back?
Related words
Common phrases
to turn back to get something
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with turning around to face someone, which is usually expressed as 擰轉頭. Use 行返轉頭 specifically for walking or moving back to a previous point.
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.
