dau2 daam2斗膽斗胆
Jyutpingdau2 daam2
Yaledáu dáam
Definition
Bold; daring; audacious.
writtencommunicationpeople
How it's used
Carries a formal or slightly dramatic tone, often used when someone is about to say something potentially offensive or controversial. It functions as a polite but firm way to soften a blunt statement, similar to saying "with all due respect" or "if I may be so bold."
Examples
How dare you speak to the boss like that?
I dare to ask, are you planning to resign?
Related words
Common phrases
to speak one's mind boldly
to dare to ask a question
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual, everyday situations with close friends, as it sounds overly stiff or theatrical. It is best reserved for professional or serious contexts where you need to show a degree of deference before speaking your mind.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
