daa2 kaat1打ｃａｒｄ
Jyutpingdaa2 kaat1
Yaledá kāat
Definition
To clock in or out of work using a card; to punch in.
colloquialwork
How it's used
Incorporating English loanwords like card into Cantonese verbs is a hallmark of local workplace speech. While younger generations might use digital systems or apps, the phrase remains deeply rooted in the habit of using physical time cards. It sounds much more natural in a casual office environment than using formal terms like 簽到.
Related words
Common phrases
time clock
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the English phrase play a card, as it is strictly used for timekeeping at work. Also, avoid using it in very formal business settings where professional Cantonese or written Chinese is expected.
Grammar color guide
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Verb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
