faai3 maa5 gaa1 bin1快馬加鞭快马加鞭
Jyutpingfaai3 maa5 gaa1 bin1
Yalefaai máh gā bīn
Definition
To speed up, accelerate, or advance at full speed.
colloquialworkdaily actions
How it's used
This idiom is often used in professional or formal contexts to urge colleagues or teams to increase their pace. While it carries a sense of urgency, it is not typically used for physical movement like running or driving, but rather for tasks, projects, or progress. It implies that the work is already moving, but needs an extra push to meet a deadline.
Examples
We need to speed things up so we can finish the report on time.
The project is behind schedule, do we need to speed up?
Related words
Common phrases
to do something with increased speed
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal description of speed, but it is strictly an idiom for accelerating progress. Do not use it to describe a fast vehicle or a quick person.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
