lyun2 zaan6戀棧恋栈

Jyutpinglyun2 zaan6

Yalelyún jaahn

Definition

To be reluctant to give up one's post, authority, or status.

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How it's used

This term carries a strong negative connotation, implying that someone is selfishly clinging to power or status despite being past their prime or having overstayed their welcome. It is most frequently used in political or corporate contexts to criticize leaders who refuse to step down. Unlike simply being attached to something, this word specifically targets the desire to maintain authority or prestige.

Examples

keoi5佢zou6做zo2咗gam3咁do1多nin4年gou1高cang4層，zung6仲lyun2戀zaan2棧go3個wai2位m4唔hang2肯zau2走。

He has been in senior management for so many years, yet he is still reluctant to give up his position.

nei5你gok3覺dak1得keoi5佢hai6係mai6咪lyun2戀zaan2棧kyun4權lik6力，so2所ji5以m4唔hang2肯teoi3退jau1休aa4呀？

Do you think he is clinging to power, which is why he refuses to retire?

Common phrases

lyun2戀zaan2棧kyun4權wai6位

clinging to power and position

Common mistake

Learners often mistake this for a general term for being reluctant to leave a place, but it is strictly reserved for professional or political positions of power. Do not use it to describe someone who is simply reluctant to leave a party or a house.