pui4 taai3 zi2 duk6 syu1陪太子讀書陪太子读书
Definition
To act as a foil or a supporting character; to play second fiddle.
- figurativeto act as a foil, sidekick, or supporting character
- to accompany and study with one's child, as a parent
How it's used
This idiom carries a self-deprecating or cynical tone, implying that one's presence is merely to facilitate someone else's success or to fulfill a formal requirement. It is frequently used in professional or social settings where someone feels their role is secondary or tokenistic. The phrase is also commonly used by parents to describe the exhausting process of supervising their children's homework, highlighting the power dynamic where the child is the 'prince' who must be served.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a genuine partnership or collaboration where both parties are equal. It specifically emphasizes a lack of agency or a subordinate status compared to the main person involved.
Grammar color guide
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.
