taat1 zoek6撻着挞着
Jyutpingtaat1 zoek6
Yaletāat jeuhk
Definition
To spark off, trigger, or activate something that was latent or waiting for a catalyst.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
Originally referring to the ignition of a gas stove or the starting of an engine, this term has evolved to describe the sudden ignition of romantic chemistry or the triggering of someone's temper. It implies that the potential for the reaction was already present and just needed a specific catalyst to manifest. It is frequently used in gossip to describe two people who suddenly start dating.
Examples
The two of them hit it off the moment they met.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal act of starting a machine, as it is almost exclusively used metaphorically in social contexts. Using it to describe turning on a light switch or starting a car engine sounds unnatural to native speakers.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
