hau6 can4後塵后尘
Jyutpinghau6 can4
Yalehauh chàhn
Definition
The footsteps or paths taken by others; a course of action previously taken by someone else.
colloquialother
How it's used
This term is almost exclusively used within the fixed phrase 步後塵, which functions as a verb phrase meaning to repeat someone's mistakes or follow their unsuccessful path. It carries a negative connotation, implying that the person being followed has failed or encountered an undesirable outcome. You will rarely hear it used in isolation outside of this specific collocation.
Examples
You really must not follow in his footsteps.
Related words
Common phrases
to follow in someone's footsteps (usually negative)
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use it to mean following someone's success or positive example, but it is strictly reserved for negative contexts like repeating failures or bad decisions.
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.
