zung3 tau4 zoeng2中頭獎中头奖
Jyutpingzung3 tau4 zoeng2
Yalejung tàuh jéung
Definition
To win the first prize in a lottery or draw, or humorously, to be hit on the head by bird poop.
- to win the first prize or jackpot in a lottery, draw, or competition
- slangto be hit on the head by bird droppings
colloquialmoneyslang
How it's used
Primarily used for winning the lottery, this phrase relies on a pun where the head represents the target of falling bird droppings. It is a common piece of dark humor to say someone has中頭獎 when they are unlucky enough to be hit by bird poop while walking outside. The shift from a lucky event to an unlucky one is a classic example of Cantonese wordplay.
Examples
The ticket I bought last night won the first prize!
Be careful when you walk under trees, you might get hit by bird poop at any time.
Related words
Common phrases
to win the Mark Six first prize
Common mistake
Do not use this to mean winning any prize; it specifically refers to the top or first prize. Using it for a minor or consolation prize will sound confusing to native speakers.
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.
