daa2 go3 baak6 gaap3 zyun3打個白鴿轉打个白鸽转
Jyutpingdaa2 go3 baak6 gaap3 zyun3
Yaledá go baahk gaap jyun
Definition
To make a brief round trip, returning to the starting point after a quick stroll.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
This idiom vividly captures the image of a pigeon circling back to its coop, emphasizing the brevity and temporary nature of an excursion. It is frequently used when someone needs to step out for a short errand, like grabbing a snack or checking the mailbox, without intending to stay away for long. The phrase implies that the departure is merely a brief interruption to one's current location or activity.
Examples
I'm just going downstairs for a quick turn and will be right back.
Common phrases
go out for a quick errand
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal description of bird behavior, but it is strictly used to describe human movement. Avoid using it for long-distance travel or trips that take several hours, as it specifically denotes a very quick turnaround.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
