In both English and Mandarin Chinese we use the phrase "pulling my leg(s)". However, the two expressions have different meanings and uses in the two languages.
In English, you can use "pulling my leg" as a way to say that you're joking or telling lies in a humorous way:
"He told me we'd be meeting Lady Gaga, but it turns out he was just pulling my leg."
In Mandarin Chinese we have the phrase 拖后腿 (tuō hòutuǐ) which is used in a more literal way of meaning "hold back someone or some animals' hind (back) legs". Think of someone trying to move forward and complete a task but being hindered by someone else.
拖后腿 (tuō hòutuǐ) could be used as a way to say that someone is "holding you back" or impeding on your progress. In a joking sense, 拖后腿 (tuō hòutuǐ) could be used among friends when discussing missing out on some opportunities at some romantic situations with someone!
So, what is the meaning of 拖后腿 (tuō hòutuǐ)?
拖后腿 (tuō hòutuǐ) a verb meaning to hinder somebody; to hold someone back;
拖 (tuō): drag, haul, delay
后腿 (hòutuǐ): hind legs
Examples of 拖后腿 (tuō hòutuǐ) being used in a sentence:
Háizi yào dào Běijīng qù gōngzuò, nǐ kě bié tuō hòutuǐ.
孩子 要 到 北京 去 工作， 你 可 别 拖 后腿。
The kid wants to go and work in Beijing; you shouldn't try to hold him back.
Tā shì gè tuō hòutuǐ de rén.
他 是 个 拖 后腿 的 人。
He is a disruptive person.
At times, you may use "拖后腿 (tuō hòutuǐ)" in...Read more
1. The phrase 拖后腿 (tuō hòutuǐ) could be applied to your situation if:
A. Your colleagues at the office have not finished their part of the report.
B. Your friend wore out your legs and now they are sore.
C. You haven't studied for your exam.
D. You forgot to buy Christmas presents.
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