cou1 dou1操刀
Jyutpingcou1 dou1
Yalechōu dōu
Definition
To do, handle, or take charge of a task.
colloquialworkdaily actions
How it's used
Originally referring to a chef or a surgeon using a knife, this term has evolved into a metaphorical way to describe taking personal charge of a specific task or project. It carries a sense of professional responsibility or hands on involvement, often implying that the person doing the work has the necessary skill or authority to see it through. It is frequently used in business or creative contexts to emphasize who is driving the execution of a plan.
Examples
Are you handling this project yourself this time?
We found an expert to take charge of this project.
Related words
Common phrases
personally handle
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe simple, mundane chores like washing dishes or cleaning the floor, as it sounds overly dramatic and pretentious in those contexts. It is best reserved for significant tasks, creative projects, or professional assignments.
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.
