zau6 dei6就地
Jyutpingzau6 dei6
Yalejauh deih
Definition
On the spot; directly at the place where one is located.
neutraldaily actionsplaces
How it's used
Focuses on the immediate physical location where an action occurs, often implying convenience or a lack of better alternatives. It is frequently paired with verbs of action or resolution to emphasize that no travel or further preparation is needed. While it sounds slightly formal in some contexts, it is perfectly acceptable in everyday speech when describing practical solutions.
Examples
We decided to solve the problem on the spot.
Why do you have to sit down and eat right where you are?
Related words
Common phrases
to use materials available on the spot
to execute on the spot
Common mistake
Avoid using this to mean 'immediately' in a temporal sense, as it strictly refers to physical space rather than time. For 'immediately', use 立即 or 即刻 instead.
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.
