zuk1 se4 jap6 si2 fat1捉蛇入屎忽
Jyutpingzuk1 se4 jap6 si2 fat1
Yalejūk sèh yahp sí fāt
Definition
To make trouble for oneself or put oneself in danger, similar to shooting oneself in the foot.
colloquialslangother
How it's used
This idiom is a vivid and slightly vulgar way to describe someone who voluntarily invites disaster or unnecessary complications into their life. It is typically used to criticize someone for a foolish decision that leads to predictable negative consequences. Because of the anatomical reference, it is best reserved for informal settings among friends or colleagues who share a close relationship.
Examples
Why are you making trouble for yourself and getting into such a mess?
He really shot himself in the foot this time and dragged the whole department down with him.
Related words
Common phrases
just end up making trouble for oneself
really asking for trouble
Common mistake
Do not use this in formal or professional settings, as the inclusion of 屎忽 makes it highly inappropriate for business or polite conversation. It is strictly a colloquial expression for venting frustration or warning others about their poor choices.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
