suk1 sou3縮數缩数
Jyutpingsuk1 sou3
Yalesūk sou
Definition
To cut back on expenses; to budget tightly or reduce spending.
colloquialworkmoney
How it's used
Focuses specifically on the act of tightening a budget or reducing spending, often implying a sense of urgency or necessity. It is frequently used in business or organizational contexts when management decides to trim costs, such as reducing staff or cutting operational budgets. The term carries a slightly informal tone, making it perfect for office gossip or casual discussion about company policies.
Examples
The economy is bad, the company needs to cut back on expenses.
How do you guys usually cut back on expenses?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 縮骨, which describes a person who is stingy or avoids responsibility. While both share the character 縮, 縮數 is strictly about financial or resource management, whereas 縮骨 is a negative character trait.
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.
