faai3 dou1 zaam2 lyun6 maa4快刀斬亂麻快刀斩乱麻

Jyutpingfaai3 dou1 zaam2 lyun6 maa4

Yalefaai dōu jáam lyuhn màh

語句

Definition

To take quick and decisive action to solve a complicated problem.

colloquialdaily actionsdescriptions

How it's used

This idiom carries a strong sense of urgency and decisiveness, often used when someone is stuck in a complicated or emotional situation. It implies that hesitation only makes things worse, so cutting through the complexity immediately is the only way to find relief. It is frequently used in the context of ending relationships or resolving long-standing workplace disputes.

Examples

min6面deoi3對ni1呢di1啲maa4麻faan4煩si6事，zeoi3最hou2好faai3快dou1刀zaam2斬lyun6亂maa4麻。

It is best to take quick and decisive action when facing these troublesome matters.

nei5你zung6仲nam2諗gan2緊？faai3快dou1刀zaam2斬lyun6亂maa4麻laa1啦，m4唔hou2好zoi3再to1拖。

Are you still thinking about it? Just make a quick decision and end it, don't drag it out anymore.

Common phrases

faai3快dou1刀zaam2斬lyun6亂maa4麻gam3咁gaai2解kyut3決

to resolve something in a quick and decisive manner

Common mistake

Learners often confuse this with simply being fast, but it specifically refers to resolving a messy, tangled situation rather than just completing a task quickly. It is not used for routine speed, such as finishing a meal or walking fast.