hou2 zi6 wai4 zi1好自為之好自为之
Jyutpinghou2 zi6 wai4 zi1
Yalehóu jih wàih jī
Definition
To look out for oneself; to take care of oneself and live well.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Carries a stern, cautionary, and sometimes cold tone that implies the speaker is washing their hands of the listener's future. It is often used in situations where someone has repeatedly ignored advice or warnings and is now facing the consequences alone. Unlike a friendly suggestion to take care, this phrase signals a final break in support or a serious warning about impending trouble.
Examples
If you don't turn over a new leaf, you'll have to look out for yourself from now on.
Related words
Common phrases
look out for yourself
Common mistake
Do not use this to mean 'take care' when saying goodbye to a friend, as it sounds like you are cutting ties with them or predicting their failure. Use 照顧好自己 instead for a warm, caring farewell.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
