hang4 wan6 jat1 tiu4 lung4 sat1 wan6 jat1 tiu4 cung4行運一條龍,失運一條蟲行运一条龙,失运一条虫

Jyutpinghang4 wan6 jat1 tiu4 lung4 sat1 wan6 jat1 tiu4 cung4
Yalehàhng wahn yāt tìuh lùhng sāt wahn yāt tìuh chùhng

Definition

To be like a dragon when lucky, but like a worm when unlucky; to experience a dramatic change in fortune.

colloquialemotiondescriptions

How it's used

This expression uses a vivid contrast between a dragon, symbolizing power and success, and a worm, symbolizing insignificance or failure. It is typically used to describe someone whose fortunes change drastically and unpredictably. The phrase is often used to offer perspective on the volatile nature of luck rather than to insult the person.

Common phrases

to be on a winning streak
to be down on one's luck

Common mistake

Do not use this phrase to describe a person's permanent character or personality. It specifically refers to the transient state of one's luck or success level.

Grammar color guide

Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector