ngau4 m4 jam2 seoi2 dim2 gam6 dak1 ngau4 tau4 dai1牛唔飲水點撳得牛頭低牛唔饮水点揿得牛头低
Jyutpingngau4 m4 jam2 seoi2 dim2 gam6 dak1 ngau4 tau4 dai1
Yalengàuh m̀h yám séui dím gahm dāk ngàuh tàuh dāi
Definition
One cannot be forced to do something against their own will.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
This proverb highlights the futility of coercion when the other party lacks the internal motivation or willingness to act. It is frequently invoked in interpersonal conflicts or workplace settings where someone is trying to force a stubborn individual to comply with a request. The imagery of a cow refusing to drink water despite being pushed is a powerful metaphor for personal autonomy.
Examples
He refuses to listen to advice; you really can't force someone to do what they don't want to.
Common phrases
forcing someone to do something
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal instruction on animal husbandry, but it is exclusively used as a metaphorical idiom for human behavior. Avoid using it in formal written reports or professional emails as it is strictly colloquial and carries a slightly cynical tone.
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.
