daam2 daai6 sam1 sai3膽大心細胆大心细

Jyutpingdaam2 daai6 sam1 sai3
Yaledáam daaih sām sai
形容詞

Definition

Bold yet cautious; brave and attentive to detail.

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How it's used

This idiom is frequently used to describe someone who possesses the ideal balance of courage and meticulousness, especially in high-stakes environments like medicine or engineering. It carries a positive connotation of professional competence rather than just reckless bravery. Unlike simple descriptors of bravery, it emphasizes the necessity of caution and precision alongside decisive action.

Examples

He has always been bold and deliberate in his work.
You must be bold and deliberate when performing surgery.

Common phrases

Common mistake

Learners often mistake this for a synonym of reckless or impulsive, but the second half, 心細, is essential to the meaning. It specifically requires the person to be observant and careful, not just daring.

Grammar color guide

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