sau1 maa5收馬收马

Jyutpingsau1 maa5

Yalesāu máh

Definition

To recruit members, especially into a gang or triad organization.

colloquialpeopleslang

How it's used

Originating from triad slang, this term specifically refers to the act of gathering followers or subordinates to bolster one's influence. While it is heavily associated with gang culture, it is sometimes used metaphorically in casual settings to describe someone aggressively building a personal team or social circle. The imagery draws from the idea of gathering horses, implying a need for strength in numbers.

Examples

keoi5佢zeoi3最gan6近hou2好ci5似soeng2想sau1收maa5馬wo5喎。

It seems like he wants to recruit new members lately.

nei5你zi1知m4唔zi1知bin1邊go3個bong1幫keoi5佢sau1收maa5馬aa4呀？

Do you know who is helping him recruit members?

Common phrases

sei3四wai4圍sau1收maa5馬

recruiting members everywhere

bong1幫jan4人sau1收maa5馬

helping someone recruit members

Common mistake

Avoid using this term in professional or formal settings, as it carries a strong criminal connotation that can sound aggressive or inappropriate. It is strictly limited to informal, often dramatic, storytelling or gossip.