一路順風
jat1 lou6 seon6 fung1
In Cantonese, "have a safe flight" is expressed as 一路順風 (jat1 lou6 seon6 fung1).
While it specifically translates to 'have a safe flight' in this context, 一路順風 is a general idiom used for any journey to wish someone a smooth trip.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase 一路順風 literally means "all the way smooth wind."
Which one should you use?
If you wish to be more formal, you can use 一路平安 to say "Have a safe journey" or 一帆風順 to say "May you have a smooth-sailing journey."
How do you pronounce it?
jat1 lou6 seon6 fung1
Did you know?
- While 一路順風 is common for travel, some sailors and pilots avoid it because 'smooth wind' can be interpreted as a lack of wind to push a vessel forward. In these professional circles, 一路平安 is preferred to avoid implying a stagnant journey.
- While 一路順風 is used for flights, Cantonese speakers also use it when someone is starting a new job or moving house. In these cases, the 'journey' refers to a major life transition rather than a physical trip.
- The word 順 in 一路順風 implies more than just a 'smooth' trip. It suggests the traveler is moving in accordance with the natural flow of fate.
Examples in context
- 一路順風！jat1 lou6 seon6 fung1Have a safe flight!
- 聽日飛，祝你一路順風。ting1 jat6 fei1, zuk1 nei5 jat1 lou6 seon6 fung1You fly tomorrow, I wish you a safe journey.
Example conversation
At the airport as Ka Ming prepares to board his flight.
- 雅婷 Nga Ting家明，祝你一路順風！gaa1 ming4, zuk1 nei5 jat1 lou6 seon6 fung1Ka Ming, have a safe flight!
- 家明 Ka Ming多謝雅婷，我哋遲啲見。do1 ze6 aa5 ting4, ngo5 dei6 ci4 di1 gin3Thank you, Ya Ting, see you later.
- 雅婷 Nga Ting到咗之後記得覆我。dou3 zo2 zi1 hau6 gei3 dak1 fuk1 ngo5Remember to message me when you arrive.
- 家明 Ka Ming好呀，拜拜。hou2 aa3, baai1 baai1Okay, bye bye.
