mat6 lo4 gan2 gu2密鑼緊鼓密锣紧鼓
Jyutpingmat6 lo4 gan2 gu2
Yalemaht lòh gán gú
Definition
In intense, active, or frantic preparation for an upcoming event.
colloquialworkdaily actions
How it's used
Originating from traditional Chinese opera, this idiom describes the rapid beating of drums and gongs that signals the start of a performance. It carries a sense of urgency and high energy, implying that multiple tasks are being handled simultaneously behind the scenes. Use it when you want to emphasize that a project is reaching a fever pitch just before the deadline.
Examples
They are in intense preparation for the concert right now.
Are you guys in the middle of intense preparations for the wedding?
Related words
Common phrases
intensely preparing
underway with intense preparation
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe simple or casual planning. It specifically implies a high level of intensity, pressure, and a flurry of activity, so it sounds hyperbolic if applied to minor, low-stakes tasks.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
