chop-chop
/'tʃɔp'tʃɔp/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adverb (informal, slang): * Quickly, without delay: Used to urge someone to hurry or to describe an action done with speed.
Usage
- This word is an informal, slang adverb used to command or describe speed. It is often used as an imperative (a command).
- It is considered somewhat dated or humorous in modern use but is still understood.
Examples
- Adverb (as a command):
- "We need to leave now, so pack your bags, chop-chop!"
- "The boss wants that report on his desk, chop-chop!"
- Adverb (describing an action):
- "If we move chop-chop, we can catch the last train."
- "He finished the task chop-chop and went home early."
Advanced Usage / Notes
- The term chop-chop is believed to have originated from Chinese Pidgin English, based on the Chinese word (快快), meaning "quickly."
- It is almost always used to convey a sense of urgency or impatience.
Variants and Related Words
- Chop (verb): To cut something into pieces with a sharp tool. This is the standard, unrelated verb from which the reduplicative slang "chop-chop" is derived in form only, not in meaning.
- Double-quick (adverb): Very quickly. (e.g., "Get over here, double-quick!")
Synonyms
- Quickly
- Fast
- Promptly
- Immediately
- Pronto (informal)
- ASAP (As Soon As Possible - initialism)
Antonyms
- Slowly
- Leisurely
- Gradually
Related Idioms / Phrases
- Look sharp!: An informal command meaning "hurry up" or "be quick."
- "Look sharp! The guests are arriving."
- Step on it!: An informal command, originally from driving (stepping on the gas pedal), meaning "hurry up."
- "Step on it, or we'll be late for the movie!"