sau2 gan2手緊手紧
Jyutpingsau2 gan2
Yalesáu gán
Definition
Short of money, or strict in grading and marking.
- short of money; cash-strapped; tight on budget
- strict or harsh in grading, marking, or assessment
colloquialmoney
How it's used
Describes a temporary state of financial constraint rather than long term poverty. It is often used to politely decline invitations or explain why one cannot spend money on non essentials. The term focuses on liquidity and available cash flow instead of total net worth.
Examples
I'm short of cash lately, so I can't treat you to a meal yet.
Related words
Common phrases
short of money recently
borrowing money due to being short of cash
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal meaning of tight hands or stiff muscles. Also, be aware that when referring to marking exams or enforcing rules, 手緊 means strict or rigorous, which is a completely different usage from the financial sense.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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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.
