nei5 zou6 co1 jat1 ngo5 zou6 sap6 ng5你做初一我做十五
Jyutpingnei5 zou6 co1 jat1 ngo5 zou6 sap6 ng5
Yalenéih jouh chō yāt ngóh jouh sahp ńgh
Definition
An expression used when retaliating or threatening retaliation; tit for tat, an eye for an eye.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
This expression originates from the lunar calendar where the first and fifteenth days are significant dates for religious offerings. It implies a cycle of action and reaction that escalates a conflict. It is almost exclusively used in heated arguments to signal that you will no longer tolerate unfair treatment and are ready to escalate the situation.
Examples
Tit for tat, let's see who is afraid of whom.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this in a professional or formal setting as it is a direct threat of retaliation. It is strictly for personal disputes and carries a very aggressive tone.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
