Definition
老江湖 literally means 'old river/lake' but refers to a person who is seasoned, worldly-wise, and street-smart — someone who has been around long enough to know how to handle tricky situations and people. The phrase often carries a nuanced tone: it can be admiring (experienced and savvy) or wary (a bit too slick or cunning), depending on context.
n.
a worldly-wise personsomeone with extensive experience and street smarts
Examples
- ,老江湖。Tā zài zhè háng gàn le sānshí nián, shì gè zhēnzhèng de lǎo jiāng hú.He's been in this industry for thirty years — a real old hand.
- 老江湖,。Gēn lǎo jiāng hú dǎ jiāodào, nǐ děi duō liú gè xīnyǎn.When dealing with a seasoned player, you need to be extra careful.
- ,老江湖,。Bié kàn tā niánqīng, qíshí tā shì gè lǎo jiāng hú, shénme shì dōu jiàn guò.Don't let his young looks fool you — he's a veteran who's seen it all.
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