sou1 zau1 si2蘇州屎苏州屎
Jyutpingsou1 zau1 si2
Yalesōu jāu sí
Definition
A mess or troublesome situation left behind by someone else.
colloquialworkother
How it's used
Originating from the phrase 蘇州過後無艇搭, this term captures the frustration of inheriting a problem that is not your own fault. It is almost exclusively used in negative contexts where someone has failed to complete their duties or has acted irresponsibly. You will frequently hear it paired with the verb 執 to describe the act of fixing these issues.
Measure word
deoi1堆dēuiExamples
After he left, he left a huge mess for me to clean up.
You've created such a mess, how are you going to deal with the consequences?
Related words
Common phrases
to clean up someone else's mess
to leave a mess behind
Common mistake
Do not use this term in formal business settings or professional emails, as it is considered slang and carries a strong, slightly aggressive tone. It is best reserved for venting to friends or close colleagues about a frustrating situation.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
