mat6 sik6 dong3 saam1 faan1密食當三番密食当三番

Jyutpingmat6 sik6 dong3 saam1 faan1

Yalemaht sihk dong sāam fāan

語句

Definition

Accumulating small wins to make a big gain, like winning multiple low-value hands in mahjong.

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How it's used

Originally a mahjong term referring to accumulating several small winning hands to equal the value of a single large hand, this phrase has evolved into a general business proverb. It highlights the strategy of prioritizing high turnover or consistent small gains over waiting for a single massive payout. It reflects a pragmatic, patient approach to wealth accumulation that is deeply rooted in local commercial culture.

Examples

seoi1雖jin4然mui5每pou1鋪jeng4贏dak1得siu2少，daan6但mat6密sik6食dong3當saam1三faan1番aa4呀。

Even though I win a little each round, small wins add up to a big one.

nei5你m4唔hou2好tai2睇siu2小ni1呢di1啲sai3細daan1單saang1生ji3意，mat6密sik6食dong3當saam1三faan1番㗎。

Don't underestimate these small orders, they really add up over time.

Common phrases

mat6密sik6食dong3當saam1三faan1番

small gains add up to a big win

Common mistake

Do not use this to describe someone who is greedy or stingy. It specifically refers to a strategy of accumulation through frequency rather than a character trait of wanting more.