zap1 syu1執輸执输
Jyutpingzap1 syu1
Yalejāp syū
Definition
To miss an opportunity or lose out to others due to acting too slowly.
colloquialdaily actionsemotion
How it's used
Reflects a deep-seated cultural anxiety about being left behind or losing an advantage in a fast-paced society. It is often used to describe someone who is overly competitive or anxious about missing out on opportunities, whether it is snagging a seat on the MTR or getting a promotion. The phrase is frequently used in the negative to express a desire to be proactive.
Examples
Hurry up, if you're any slower you'll miss out!
Related words
Common phrases
to be the first to act to avoid missing out
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply losing something or being late. It specifically implies that someone else has taken the opportunity that you could have had if you had acted faster.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
Adverb
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
