gong1 wu4 gau3 gap1江湖救急
Jyutpinggong1 wu4 gau3 gap1
Yalegōng wùh gau gāp
Definition
An urgent request for financial help or assistance, especially among friends or colleagues in a tight spot.
colloquialpeoplemoney
How it's used
Originally rooted in the code of conduct among triad members to assist those in dire straits, this phrase has evolved into a common expression for asking for urgent, often financial, help. It carries a sense of camaraderie and implies that the favor is a temporary fix for a sudden crisis. It is frequently used when someone is caught off guard and needs a quick solution from a trusted friend.
Examples
Can you help me out with some money in this emergency?
He really needs help for an emergency this time, just help him out once.
Related words
Common phrases
borrowing money for an emergency
Common mistake
Do not use this for formal business or professional emergencies, as it retains a slightly informal and streetwise connotation that sounds out of place in a corporate setting.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
