ziu6 zi1 zik1 loi4召之即來召之即来
Jyutpingziu6 zi1 zik1 loi4
Yalejiuh jī jīk lòih
Definition
To come immediately when called; to be obedient and responsive upon being summoned.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This idiom carries a slightly cynical or critical tone when applied to people, implying a lack of personal boundaries or excessive subservience. It is often used to describe someone who is overly eager to please or a subordinate who is expected to be available at all hours. While it can describe a loyal assistant, it is more frequently used to complain about someone being treated like a servant.
Examples
He is like someone who comes whenever called, you can find him anytime.
Related words
Common phrases
beck and call
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a positive trait of efficiency or reliability, but it frequently implies a power imbalance where the person being summoned has no autonomy.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
