zin3 gei1戰機战机
Jyutpingzin3 gei1
Yalejin gēi
Definition
A military fighter aircraft, or a critical opportunity in battle.
- fighter aircraft; any military aircraft with combat capabilities
- a critical opportunity or decisive moment in military action
neutraltransportother
How it's used
Distinguish between the literal sense of a military aircraft and the metaphorical sense of a fleeting opportunity. When used metaphorically, it often appears in contexts involving strategy, sports, or business where timing is critical to success. It carries a sense of urgency and gravity that implies the window for action is closing rapidly.
Measure word
gaa3架gaExamples
They missed the decisive moment very quickly.
The performance of this fighter jet is really strong.
Related words
Common phrases
to miss the decisive opportunity
to seize the decisive moment
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 飛機, which is the general term for any airplane. Using 戰機 to refer to a commercial passenger plane is incorrect and sounds like you are describing a military attack.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
