daa2 saai3 sik1打晒色
Jyutpingdaa2 saai3 sik1
Yaledá sai sīk
Definition
To become the leader; to make decisions on behalf of others
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
This phrase is a vivid metaphor derived from the idea of being the one who sets the tone or direction for a group. It implies a level of authority or dominance where one person has the final say in all matters. It is frequently used to describe someone who is either a natural leader or someone who is being overly controlling in a situation.
Examples
le1 daan1 je5 jau4 nei5 daa2 saai3 sik1 ngo5 mou5 ji3 gin3
呢單嘢由你打晒色，我冇意見。
You make all the decisions for this project, I have no opinion.
keoi5 hai2 gung1 si1 daa2 saai3 sik1 bin1 go3 gam2 m4 teng1 keoi5 gong2
佢喺公司打晒色，邊個敢唔聽佢講？
He calls all the shots at the company, who dares to disobey him?
Related words
Common phrases
cyun4 kyun4 daa2 saai3 sik1
全權打晒色
to have full authority to call the shots
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal description of color or painting. It is strictly an idiom for leadership or decision-making power and should not be used in contexts involving actual art or visual design.
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
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.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
