san1 zaak6 sai1新澤西新泽西
Jyutpingsan1 zaak6 sai1
Yalesān jaahk sāi
Definition
Extremely greedy or driving an excessively hard bargain, seeking excessive profit.
colloquialmoneyslang
How it's used
This term functions as a colorful metaphor for someone who is greedy or charges exorbitant prices. It relies on the pun between the deep draught of the battleship and the Cantonese idiom 食水深, which describes someone who takes a large cut of profit. Using this term implies that the person is taking advantage of the situation to extract as much money as possible.
Examples
He is asking for such a high price, he is really driving a hard bargain.
Don't be so ruthless when doing business.
Related words
Common phrases
a total rip-off
Common mistake
This is a highly specific cultural reference that younger generations may not recognize immediately. It is also strictly used to describe someone who is greedy or overcharging, rather than someone who is simply good at negotiating a fair deal.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
