dang2 tau4戥頭戥头
Jyutpingdang2 tau4
Yaledáng tàuh
Definition
To balance or offset; to compensate for a deficit or make things even.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
Primarily used in the context of games or social gatherings where a specific number of participants is required to proceed. It carries a sense of being a temporary filler or a substitute to ensure the activity can continue. While it literally implies balancing, it is rarely used in financial or weight-related contexts.
Examples
Find someone to fill the spot, otherwise there aren't enough people to play.
We are one person short for mahjong tonight, can you come over to make up the numbers?
Related words
Common phrases
find someone to fill the vacancy
come over to make up the numbers
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with general synonyms for helping or assisting, as it specifically refers to filling a vacancy to reach a required count.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
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.
