jat1 gu2 zok3 hei3一鼓作氣一鼓作气

Jyutpingjat1 gu2 zok3 hei3

Yaleyāt gú jok hei

副詞

Definition

To get something done in one sustained effort, capitalizing on initial momentum and enthusiasm.

neutraldaily actions

How it's used

Originating from a classic historical text, this idiom describes the psychological momentum required to complete a task without pausing. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus while one's motivation is at its peak. It is frequently used in professional or academic contexts to encourage team members to push through a final hurdle.

Examples

ngo5我dei6哋jat1一gu2鼓zok3作hei3氣zou6做jyun4完le1呢fan2份bou3報gou3告laa1啦。

Let's finish this report in one go.

nei5你hai6係mai6咪soeng2想jat1一gu2鼓zok3作hei3氣paau2跑maai4埋zeoi3最hau6後go2嗰dyun6段lou6路？

Are you planning to run the last stretch in one sustained effort?

Common phrases

jat1一gu2鼓zok3作hei3氣zou6做jyun4完

to finish something in one go

Common mistake

Learners often mistake this for a simple adverb meaning quickly, but it specifically implies a continuous, uninterrupted effort rather than just speed. It is not used to describe physical movement alone, but rather the mental resolve to finish a project or goal.