gaa1 tin1 haa6家天下
Jyutpinggaa1 tin1 haa6
Yalegā tīn hah
Definition
A system of hereditary rule where the empire is treated as the ruling family's private property.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Refers specifically to the political concept where a dynasty treats the entire nation as their private family estate. In modern colloquial speech, it is frequently used sarcastically to criticize bosses or leaders who run organizations with a dictatorial, nepotistic, or self-serving attitude.
Examples
Ancient emperors were always thinking about ruling the world as their own family property.
Does he think this company is his own private kingdom?
Related words
Common phrases
the mentality of treating the state as private property
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply 'at home' or 'homely'. It is a highly specific term rooted in political history and is almost always used with a negative or critical connotation when applied to modern settings.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
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Particle
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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.
