zi6 gei2 zap1 saang1自己執生自己执生

Jyutpingzi6 gei2 zap1 saang1

Yalejih géi jāp sāang

Definition

To use one's own initiative; to look out for oneself; to play it by ear depending on the situation.

colloquialpeopledaily actions

How it's used

Implies a situation where no one else will provide assistance or guidance, forcing the individual to rely entirely on their own judgment and survival instincts. It carries a slightly cynical or warning tone, often used when someone is entering a risky or unpredictable environment. It is essentially a command to be resourceful and alert to avoid trouble.

Examples

nei1呢dou6度hou2好lyun6亂，nei5你zi6自gei2己zap1執saang1生laa1啦。

It is chaotic here, you better watch yourself.

lou5老baan2闆m4唔wui2會lei5理nei5你，nei5你zi6自gei2己zap1執saang1生laa1啦。

The boss won't care about you, you have to fend for yourself.

Common phrases

zi6自gei2己zap1執saang1生

fend for oneself

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with simply taking care of one's health or hygiene. It specifically refers to navigating social or professional situations where one must be street-smart to avoid negative consequences.