gan2 lo4 mat6 gu2緊鑼密鼓紧锣密鼓
Definition
Busy for preparation; great fanfare; wildly beating gongs and drums; intense publicity campaign in preparation for some sinister undertaking
How it's used
Originally describing the frantic sound of gongs and drums in traditional opera to signal a scene change or a dramatic entrance, this idiom has evolved to describe any high intensity, behind the scenes preparation. It carries a sense of urgency and focused effort, often implying that a major event or announcement is imminent. While it sounds slightly formal or literary compared to everyday slang, it is frequently used in news reports and professional settings to describe project launches.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple synonym of busy, but it specifically refers to the preparatory phase of a project rather than just being occupied with daily tasks. It is not used to describe a person who is simply having a busy day at the office.
Tone guide
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
