ling6 hei2 lou4 zou3另起爐灶另起炉灶
Jyutpingling6 hei2 lou4 zou3
Yalelihng héi lòuh jou
Definition
To start anew; to abandon what is established and set up a new venture of a similar nature.
colloquialworkpeople
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong sense of independence and ambition, often implying a break from a previous authority or established system. While it is frequently used in a business context, it can also describe personal projects or creative endeavors where someone chooses to start fresh on their own terms. It implies a deliberate move to separate from an existing structure rather than just changing jobs.
Examples
He had a falling out with his partner and decided to strike out on his own.
Why don't you stay here instead of starting your own thing?
Related words
Common phrases
decide to start one's own business
plan to strike out on one's own
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use this to mean simply changing jobs, but it specifically implies creating a new, independent entity or project that competes with or replaces the previous one. It is not used for minor changes or routine transitions.
Grammar color guide
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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.
