tau4 paau3頭炮头炮
Jyutpingtau4 paau3
Yaletàuh paau
Definition
The first shot, first strike, or opening salvo; the initial move of a campaign or project.
colloquialworkother
How it's used
Originally referring to the first cannon shot fired to signal the start of an event, this term is now widely used in business and entertainment to describe a high profile debut or launch. It carries a sense of anticipation and importance, suggesting that the initial success of a project is crucial for setting the tone for everything that follows.
Examples
How do you plan to make a successful start?
Related words
Common phrases
to get off to a flying start
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe the very first item in a simple list or sequence. It specifically implies a strategic, attention grabbing opening move or a major project launch.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
