paau2 lung4 tou3跑龍套跑龙套
Jyutpingpaau2 lung4 tou3
Yalepáau lùhng tou
Definition
To play a minor role, such as a walk-on part or a film extra.
colloquialworkpeople
How it's used
Originally referring to a specific role in Chinese opera where actors wore dragon patterned costumes, the term has evolved to describe any minor or insignificant role. It carries a slightly self deprecating or cynical tone when used to describe one's own career path. It is often used metaphorically outside of the film industry to describe someone who is just filling a space or performing menial tasks without real influence.
Examples
He is just an extra in this movie.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being a supporting actor, as 跑龍套 implies having almost no lines or individual character development. It is strictly for background or non speaking roles.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
