zik6 dou2 wong4 lung4直搗黃龍直捣黄龙
Jyutpingzik6 dou2 wong4 lung4
Yalejihk dóu wòhng lùhng
Definition
To attack the enemy's stronghold directly; to strike straight at the heart of the enemy.
colloquialworkother
How it's used
Originally a historical idiom referring to a military campaign against the Jin dynasty, this phrase is now frequently used in business or competitive contexts to describe bypassing intermediaries to confront the core issue or decision maker. It carries a sense of bold, decisive action aimed at achieving a quick victory. While it sounds somewhat dramatic, it is commonly used in casual conversation to describe aggressive problem solving.
Examples
We need to strike at the enemy's base this time and defeat them in one go.
Are you planning to go straight to the source and find the boss at their office?
Related words
Common phrases
a strategy to strike at the heart of the matter
Common mistake
Do not use this phrase to describe literal travel or movement, as it specifically implies a strategic, often confrontational, objective. It is not a synonym for simply going to a place directly.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
