paak3 baan2拍板
Definition
To make a final decision; to greenlight or finalize a plan.
How it's used
Originating from the traditional Chinese opera where the percussionist uses a wooden clapper to signal the start or end of a scene, this term now implies a final, authoritative decision. It is commonly used in business or formal negotiations to indicate that a consensus has been reached and action will follow. Using it suggests that the speaker is either the person in charge or is waiting for the final word from someone with that power.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 決定, which is a neutral term for deciding. 拍板 carries a sense of finality and often implies a formal agreement or a high-level executive decision, making it sound slightly more dramatic or business-oriented than a simple choice.
Grammar color guide
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.
