kok3 cit3 zi1 fu6涸轍之鮒涸辙之鲋
Jyutpingkok3 cit3 zi1 fu6
Yalekok chit jī fuh
Definition
A fish in a dry rut; a person in a desperate situation who is in urgent need of help.
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How it's used
This idiom is a literary expression used to describe someone in a dire, life-threatening situation who requires immediate assistance. While it originates from classical Chinese, it is still used in formal or dramatic Cantonese contexts to emphasize the urgency of a person's plight. It carries a sense of helplessness and the need for a timely intervention to survive.
Examples
He is like a fish in a dried-up rut right now, desperately needing help.
Facing this predicament, how can we rescue this person in such a desperate situation?
Related words
Common phrases
urgently need help
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common everyday phrase, but it is quite formal and sounds unnatural in casual, lighthearted conversation. Use it only when describing serious or critical circumstances.
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.
