zit3 zuk1 sin1 dang1捷足先登

Jyutpingzit3 zuk1 sin1 dang1

Yalejit jūk sīn dāng

動詞

Definition

To seize an opportunity before others; to get a head start.

writtendaily actionsother

How it's used

This idiom carries a slightly competitive or opportunistic tone, often used when someone successfully secures a limited resource or advantage. It is frequently employed in business or social contexts where timing is critical. Unlike simpler phrases, it implies a sense of strategic speed rather than just being lucky.

Examples

ngo5我dei6哋jiu3要faai3快di1啲，m4唔hou2好bei2畀jan4人zit3捷zuk1足sin1先dang1登aa4呀。

We need to hurry, don't let others get there first.

keoi5佢zit3捷zuk1足sin1先dang1登，maai5買zo2咗go2嗰zoeng1張haan6限loeng6量baan2版mun4門piu3票。

He got there first and bought that limited edition ticket.

Common phrases

bei2畀jan4人zit3捷zuk1足sin1先dang1登

to be beaten to the punch by someone

Common mistake

Learners often mistake this for a general term for being fast, but it specifically refers to securing an advantage or object before others do. It is not used for simply arriving at a location early for a meeting.