daa2 sing2 zing1 san4打醒精神
Jyutpingdaa2 sing2 zing1 san4
Yaledá síng jīng sàhn
Definition
To brace oneself, stay alert, or pay close attention.
colloquialdaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
This phrase is used to warn someone to focus or avoid making careless mistakes. It implies a state of being mentally sharp and ready to react, often used when there is a potential danger or a task requiring high concentration. It is more active and urgent than simply saying someone is awake.
Examples
You need to stay alert while listening to the lecture.
Remember to keep your wits about you when crossing the road.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 提起精神, which means to cheer up or boost one's energy levels. 打醒精神 is specifically about vigilance and situational awareness, not about overcoming fatigue or sadness.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
