jat1 fu1 dong1 gwaan1一夫當關一夫当关
Definition
One man guarding a gateway, describing someone who is brave and capable of holding off any trouble on their own.
How it's used
This idiom is often used to praise someone who takes full responsibility for a difficult situation or acts as a strong defensive barrier. It carries a sense of heroic isolation, implying that the person is capable enough to handle a challenge that would normally require a team. While it originates from historical military strategy, it is now frequently applied to workplace or social scenarios where one person steps up to solve a crisis.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply working alone or being antisocial. It specifically requires the context of facing a significant challenge, threat, or heavy workload that others are unable or unwilling to handle.
Grammar color guide
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.
