gap1 zung1 sang1 zi3急中生智
Jyutpinggap1 zung1 sang1 zi3
Yalegāp jūng sāng ji
Definition
To find a solution or a way out in a moment of desperation, crisis, or urgency.
neutralpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Describes a sudden spark of inspiration or a clever solution that appears exactly when someone is backed into a corner. Unlike general intelligence or cleverness, it specifically highlights the ability to perform under extreme pressure or crisis. It is often used to praise someone who managed to avoid a disaster through a split second decision.
Examples
He was quick-witted in that moment and immediately found an excuse to leave first.
How were you able to come up with this solution so quickly under such pressure?
Related words
Common phrases
to think of something in a moment of desperation
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe someone who is simply smart or naturally quick-witted in daily life. It is strictly reserved for situations where there is an immediate, urgent problem that needs to be solved to avoid a negative outcome.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
