gam1 pun4 sai2 sau2金盆洗手
Jyutpinggam1 pun4 sai2 sau2
Yalegām pùhn sái sáu
Definition
To retire; to wash one's hands of a business or activity and quit.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Originally referring to a formal ceremony where a martial artist or gang member would publicly renounce their past, the phrase now carries a slightly dramatic or cinematic tone. It is most frequently used when someone leaves a high stakes or illicit career, such as gambling or criminal activity. Using it for mundane jobs like office work can sound overly theatrical or sarcastic.
Examples
He has been a gang leader for so many years and has finally decided to retire.
Are you really planning to retire and never touch this stuff again?
Related words
Common phrases
decide to retire
announce one's retirement
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply quitting a job, as it implies a permanent and total break from a specific lifestyle or industry. It is not used for casual changes in employment.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
