pit3 dong3撇檔撇档
Jyutpingpit3 dong3
Yalepit dong
Definition
To dissolve a partnership or business; also to scatter and flee in different directions.
- to close down a business, dissolve a partnership, or break up
- to scatter and escape in different directions, such as during a police raid
colloquialworkpeople
How it's used
Originating from the street hawker culture, this term captures the urgency of clearing a stall to avoid trouble or simply closing shop for the day. It has evolved into a metaphorical way to describe ending any professional or personal alliance. It carries a slightly informal and abrupt tone, implying that the separation is final and perhaps a bit messy.
Examples
They worked together for a long time, but in the end, they had to break up the partnership.
As soon as the police arrived, the hawkers immediately packed up and scattered to escape.
Related words
Common phrases
immediately pack up and leave
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the more common 收檔, which usually just means closing a shop for the day. 撇檔 carries a stronger connotation of abandonment or a sudden, often forced, termination of a relationship or operation.
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.
