Singaporean Mandarin Database
This database contains a collection of Mandarin terms which have cultural, historical or sentimental value unique to Singapore. These terms may be used by Singaporeans in the past or at present. Some of the terms are read in print while others are used in our everyday conversations.
to get something done (colloquially known as gao dim)
to get something done (colloquially known as gao dim)
DEFINITION
Verb
To complete a piece of work or resolve an issue.
由来
- 源自广东话的口语词语 gao dim。
- “掂” 在广东话里有两个定义。其一是直、竖的意思，其二是妥当、稳当的意思。搞掂中的“掂”是第二个定义的延伸。因此，把事情搞掂就是把事情处理妥当，即完事、大功告成的意思。
ETYMOLOGY
- The term originated from the Cantonese colloquial term gao dim.
- There are two definitions of the Chinese character “掂” in Cantonese. One means straight or vertical, and the other means proper or stable. The character “掂” in “搞掂” is an extension of the second definition. Therefore, to gao dim something means to get something done properly, in other words, to successfully finish or accomplish something.
例句
相机的操作技术和技巧已经在很大程度上交给相机制造商去搞掂，不再成为人们实现摄影之梦的拦路虎了。（《联合早报》，24/7/2011）
SAMPLE SENTENCE
The techniques and skills demanded of photographers have been largely resolved (gao dim) by the camera manufacturers and are no longer barriers to the realisation of one's photography dreams. (Lianhe Zaobao, 24/7/2011)
TERMS USED IN OTHER REGIONS