sik6 wu2食胡
Jyutpingsik6 wu2
Yalesihk wú
Definition
To win a hand in mahjong by completing the winning combination of tiles.
colloquialother
How it's used
Originating from mahjong, this term has transcended the game table to describe achieving a goal or successfully completing a task. It carries a sense of triumph or hitting the jackpot in everyday life. You will often hear it used metaphorically when someone finally gets a desired outcome after much effort.
Examples
Have you won the round yet?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin term 胡牌, as Cantonese speakers exclusively use 食胡 to denote the act of winning. Using the Mandarin phrasing will sound unnatural and may not be immediately understood in a casual setting.
Grammar color guide
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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.
