saai3 maa5矖馬矖马
Jyutpingsaai3 maa5
Yalesaai máh
Definition
A show of force by triad gangs to demonstrate their strength in numbers before a fight.
slangpeopleslang
How it's used
Originating from triad subculture, this term specifically refers to the act of gathering a large crowd to intimidate rivals or display dominance. It implies a public, often noisy, and aggressive assembly rather than a covert operation. While it is widely understood in Hong Kong, it is strictly associated with criminal activity and should be avoided in polite or professional conversation.
Examples
There is going to be a show of force by a gang over there tomorrow night, you better not go.
They gathered a whole group to show off their numbers on the street last night, scaring all the neighbors.
Related words
Common phrases
go out to perform a show of force
a whole group showing off their numbers
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply gathering friends for a party or a protest. Using this term implies a criminal or violent intent, making it highly inappropriate for describing social gatherings.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Particle
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Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
