lok6 zaap6 fong3 gau2落閘放狗落闸放狗
Jyutpinglok6 zaap6 fong3 gau2
Yalelohk jaahp fong gáu
Definition
To close the gate and unleash dogs to ward off intruders, used figuratively to signal closing up or shutting out trouble.
- to close the gate and unleash dogs to keep out burglars or unwanted visitors
- to signal to coworkers that it is time to lock up and they should hurry
- slangto warn troublemakers to watch out and leave
colloquialworkdaily actions
How it's used
Originally referring to security measures for shops or homes, this phrase has evolved into a common office idiom for signaling the end of the workday. It carries a slightly aggressive or humorous tone depending on the context, often used to jokingly threaten someone who is overstaying their welcome or being annoying. It implies a firm boundary is being set and that the speaker is no longer willing to engage.
Examples
It is time, let's wrap up and get out of here!
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this phrase in formal business settings or with superiors, as it is highly informal and can sound confrontational or rude if the recipient does not understand the jocular intent.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
