lou1 gwo3 gaai3撈過界捞过界
Jyutpinglou1 gwo3 gaai3
Yalelōu gwo gaai
Definition
To overstep boundaries; to interfere in someone else's business, work, or territory.
colloquialworkpeople
How it's used
Originating from the world of triads and street markets, this phrase describes someone encroaching on another person's professional turf or responsibilities. It carries a slightly confrontational tone and is often used to set boundaries when a colleague or peer is being overly helpful or meddlesome. While it can be used jokingly among close friends, it is generally perceived as a warning to stay in one's own lane.
Examples
Why are you overstepping and writing my report for me?
The boss told me to focus on my own job and not interfere with others.
Related words
Common phrases
to overstep boundaries in work
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply helping someone out. Using this phrase implies that the person is overstepping their authority or taking over tasks that do not belong to them, which can be seen as an insult to the other person's competence.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
