jik6 lau4逆流
Jyutpingjik6 lau4
Yaleyihk làuh
Definition
Against the flow or current; counter-current.
neutralnaturedescriptions
How it's used
Often used metaphorically to describe someone who refuses to follow the crowd or mainstream trends. It carries a strong sense of resilience or stubbornness depending on the context. While it can refer to physical water currents, it is far more common in daily speech to describe social or professional resistance.
Examples
They insisted on going against the current, they are really brave.
Why do you have to go against the flow and make things so difficult for yourself?
Related words
Common phrases
to go against the current
to swim against the tide
Common mistake
Avoid using this to mean simply 'turning back' or 'returning', as it specifically implies moving against a force or direction that is pushing against you.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
