Definition
殿后 is a separable verb (离合词) meaning 'to bring up the rear' — typically used in marching, military, or group movement contexts. The verb 殿 and object 后 can split to insert aspect markers like 了 or 过 (e.g., 殿了后 'brought up the rear'), but the object itself cannot take a separate measure word. You can also use it without splitting: 殿后 functions as a single verb.
v.o.
to bring up the rearto be the last in a group
Examples
- 殿后。Tā fùzé diàn hòu.He is responsible for bringing up the rear.
- 。Tāmen diàn le hòu cái líkāi.They brought up the rear before leaving.
- 殿后。Duìwu yóu tā diàn hòu.The team's rear is covered by him.
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