sik6 zuk1 zi6 faan6食粥食飯食粥食饭
Jyutpingsik6 zuk1 zi6 faan6
Yalesihk jūk jih faahn
Definition
To make it or break it; a critical moment that determines whether the outcome will be bad or good.
colloquialdaily actionsother
How it's used
This expression uses the contrast between congee and rice to represent a binary outcome of failure versus success. It is typically used when a person is facing a high stakes situation where the final result is uncertain. It emphasizes that the outcome is entirely dependent on the effort or performance of the person being addressed.
Examples
Whether you pass or fail this exam depends on how you study.
The success or failure of this deal relies entirely on your help.
Related words
Common phrases
it is up to you whether you succeed or fail
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal comment on dietary habits. It is strictly an idiom for assessing the outcome of a situation and should not be used to describe actual meals.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
