to1 jau4 ping4拖油瓶
Jyutpingto1 jau4 ping4
Yaletō yàuh pìhng
Definition
To remarry and bring one's children from a previous marriage into the new family.
colloquialpeoplefamily
How it's used
Carries a strong derogatory tone, implying that the child is an unwanted burden or an extra weight on the new husband. It is considered highly offensive and insensitive to use this term in front of the family involved. While the term specifically targets the child as an encumbrance, it reflects a traditional patriarchal view of marriage and step-parenting.
Examples
She remarried with her child in tow, and life is very difficult.
Common mistake
Do not use this term to describe a child in a neutral or positive context, as it is strictly an insult. It is not a standard way to refer to stepchildren in polite society.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
