jik6 zaap6逆襲逆袭
Jyutpingjik6 zaap6
Yaleyihk jaahp
Definition
To counterattack from a position of disadvantage; to turn the tables.
colloquialother
How it's used
Originally a military term, this word has been widely adopted in pop culture to describe a dramatic comeback or an underdog victory. It carries a strong sense of triumph over adversity, often used in contexts like sports, gaming, or personal life improvements. Unlike simple words for winning, it emphasizes the shift from a losing position to a winning one.
Examples
He turned the tables at the last moment and won the championship.
Do you think they still have a chance to turn the tables in this game?
Related words
Common phrases
successful comeback
spirit of counterattack
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general word for winning or fighting back, but it specifically requires a context where the person was previously in a losing or disadvantageous position.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
