lou5 diu6 cung4 taan4老調重彈老调重弹
Jyutpinglou5 diu6 cung4 taan4
Yalelóuh diuh chùhng tàahn
Definition
To harp on the same old theme; to repeat an old argument with nothing new to offer.
- to repeat an old argument or idea; to harp on the same old theme
- figurativeto return to one's former trade or reactivate an old skill
colloquialcommunicationwork
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of weariness or annoyance, as it implies the speaker is wasting time by recycling stale ideas. It is often used to dismiss someone who refuses to adapt or offer fresh perspectives during a discussion. While it sounds slightly formal due to its idiom structure, it is frequently used in casual workplace or social arguments to shut down repetitive complaints.
Examples
He is droning on about the same old stuff again.
Related words
Common phrases
a suggestion that is just repeating the same old ideas
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 重操故業, which specifically refers to returning to a former profession or trade. 老調重彈 is strictly about repeating the same opinions or topics in conversation, not about changing one's career path.
Grammar color guide
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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.
