saang1 bun1 ngaang6 tou3生搬硬套
Jyutpingsaang1 bun1 ngaang6 tou3
Yalesāang būn ngaahng tou
Definition
To copy blindly or apply mechanically without considering the specific circumstances.
neutralworkother
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong negative connotation of being rigid or lacking critical thinking. It is frequently used in professional or academic settings to criticize someone for applying theories or rules without considering the actual context of the situation.
Examples
Don't just copy their methods blindly.
You need to be flexible at work, don't just follow the rules blindly.
Related words
Common phrases
blindly applying theories
blindly copying a model
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple verb meaning to copy, but it specifically implies a lack of adaptation or intelligence in the process. It is not used for copying homework or simple imitation, but rather for applying abstract concepts or systems inappropriately.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
