gap1 jyu1 kau4 sing4急於求成急于求成
Jyutpinggap1 jyu1 kau4 sing4
Yalegāp yū kàuh sìhng
Definition
Eager for success; impatient to achieve results or reach a goal.
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How it's used
This idiom carries a negative connotation, implying that a person's impatience will likely lead to failure or poor quality work. It is often used as a warning or a critique of someone who lacks the necessary patience for long-term development. Unlike simpler terms for being in a hurry, this specifically highlights the obsession with the final outcome rather than the process.
Examples
Don't be in such a rush to succeed when working; take it slow to do it well.
If you are so impatient for success, you will easily make mistakes.
Related words
Common phrases
an impatient mindset for success
excessively impatient for success
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a positive trait like being ambitious or driven, but it is almost always used to point out a flaw in someone's approach. It is not a synonym for being hardworking or goal-oriented.
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.
