tai2 lou6睇路
Jyutpingtai2 lou6
Yaletái louh
Definition
To watch one's step, or to be cautious and watch out for risks.
- to watch where one is going; to look out for obstacles while walking
- to be cautious; to watch one's step due to high risks or threats
colloquialdaily actionspeople
How it's used
Beyond the literal meaning of watching where one walks, this phrase is frequently used metaphorically to warn someone to be cautious in their social or professional conduct. When used in this way, it carries a sense of impending trouble or a subtle threat, implying that if the person does not change their behavior, they will face negative consequences. It is a common way to tell someone to be street-smart and aware of their surroundings.
Examples
There are many drain covers ahead, watch your step while walking.
You are so careless with your work, you really need to watch your back.
Related words
Common phrases
watch your step while walking
to tell someone to watch out
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal act of looking at a road map or a street sign. While it can be used literally, the metaphorical usage is so common that it can sound like a warning or a threat depending on the tone of voice.
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.
