fong3 gaam1放監放监
Jyutpingfong3 gaam1
Yalefong gāam
Definition
To be released from prison; also used as a slang term for getting off work or finishing school.
- to be released from prison upon completing a sentence or receiving a pardon
- slangto get off work or to finish school
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
Originally referring to the release of a prisoner, this term is frequently used as a humorous, self-deprecating way to describe finishing a long day at work or school. It implies that the workplace or classroom feels like a prison, and the act of leaving is a form of liberation. Using it in a professional setting can sound informal or cynical, so it is best reserved for casual conversations with friends or close colleagues.
Examples
He served five years and was finally released from prison today.
What time are you getting off work? Where are we going for dinner tonight?
Related words
Common phrases
finally released from prison or finally off work
Common mistake
Do not use this term in formal contexts or when speaking to superiors, as it implies that your workplace is a prison. It is strictly colloquial and carries a strong sense of irony.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
