ceot1 maa5出馬出马
Jyutpingceot1 maa5
Yalechēut máh
Definition
To step in or take action, especially by having a capable or influential person handle a situation.
colloquialdaily actionspeople
How it's used
This term carries a slightly dramatic or grand flair, often implying that the person stepping in has a higher status or greater skill than those currently struggling. It is frequently used in a semi-humorous way when someone decides to intervene in a minor task, making it sound like a significant mission. While it can be used seriously in professional contexts, it is just as common in casual banter among friends.
Examples
This matter is too complicated; only if you take action yourself can it be resolved.
You can't handle it? Do you need me to step in and help you?
Related words
Common phrases
to personally take action
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone simply starting a task or going to work. It specifically implies that the person is stepping in to resolve a situation where others have failed or are struggling.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
