jan4 sang1 lou6 bat1 suk6人生路不熟
Jyutpingjan4 sang1 lou6 bat1 suk6
Yaleyàhn sāng louh bāt suhk
Definition
Unfamiliar with a new place or environment; a stranger in a strange land.
colloquialpeopleplaces
How it's used
This idiom is frequently used to explain why someone might be hesitant, cautious, or prone to making mistakes in a new environment. It implies a sense of vulnerability, as the speaker lacks the local knowledge or social connections to navigate the situation easily. It is often invoked as a justification for asking for help or being extra vigilant.
Examples
I just moved here and don't know the area, so I don't know where to eat.
nei5你dai6第jat1一ci3次heoi3去leoi5旅hang4行，jan4人saang1生lou6路bat1不suk6熟，gei3記dak1得jiu3要tai2睇zyu6住dei6地tou4圖。
It's your first time traveling and you're in a new place, remember to keep an eye on the map.
Common phrases
Be careful when you are in an unfamiliar place.
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal description of being lost on a road, but it is a metaphorical expression for being unfamiliar with any new social or physical setting, not just navigation.
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.
