zaa1 zeng3 lei4 zou6揸正嚟做

Jyutpingzaa1 zeng3 lei4 zou6

Yalejā jeng lèih jouh

動詞

Definition

To follow the rules strictly, go by the book, and leave no room for compromise or discretion.

colloquialworkpeople

How it's used

This expression carries a strong connotation of being inflexible or lacking human touch. It is often used to justify a decision that might seem harsh or unfriendly, essentially signaling that the speaker has no choice but to prioritize procedure over personal relationships.

Examples

gung1公si1司kwai1規ding6定jiu3要zaa1揸zeng3正lai4嚟zou6做，nei5你dou1都hai6係m4唔hou2好gaau2搞gam3咁do1多je5嘢。

The company rules require us to go by the book, so you better not stir up trouble.

keoi5佢ci3次ci3次dou1都zaa1揸zeng3正lai4嚟zou6做，gaau2搞dou3到daai6大gaa1家gei2幾naan4難zou6做jan4人。

He always follows the rules so strictly that it makes things difficult for everyone.

Common phrases

m4唔hou2好gwaai3怪ngo5我zaa1揸zeng3正lai4嚟zou6做

Don't blame me for following the rules strictly

Common mistake

Learners often mistake this for simply following instructions, but it specifically implies a refusal to make exceptions or show leniency, which can sound quite cold or confrontational in a social setting.