zi1 jau4 daam6 ding6滋油淡定

Jyutpingzi1 jau4 daam6 ding6

Yalejī yàuh daahm dihng

Definition

Leisurely, relaxed, and composed when doing things; unhurried.

colloquialdescriptionsemotion

How it's used

This phrase captures a specific type of composure where someone remains unhurried and calm regardless of external pressure. It is often used to describe someone who moves or acts with a deliberate, slow pace that suggests they are completely in control of the situation. While it can be a compliment for someone who stays cool under fire, it can also be used sarcastically to describe someone who is frustratingly slow or indifferent to deadlines.

Examples

nei5你zou6做je5嘢gam3咁zi1滋jau4油daam6淡ding6定，bin1邊go3個gau3夠nei5你dau3鬥aa4呀？

You are so relaxed and steady when you work, who can compete with you?

zau6就syun3算gon2趕si4時gaan3間，keoi5佢dou1都hai6係zi1滋jau4油daam6淡ding6定gam3咁haang4行。

Even when he is in a rush, he still walks in a relaxed and steady manner.

Common phrases

biu2表jin6現zi1滋jau4油daam6淡ding6定

to appear relaxed and steady

zi1滋jau4油daam6淡ding6定gam3咁zou6做

to do something in a relaxed and steady manner

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with being lazy or incompetent. It specifically refers to an attitude of composure and steady pacing, whereas words like 懶散 imply a lack of motivation or effort.