Catch Phrase | 派糖(pàitáng)

Writer: Debra Li  | Editor: Stephanie Yang  | From:  | Updated: 2019-08-20

Meaning:

“派” means “to allocate,” and “糖” means “candies.” This term, commonly used by Hong Kong people, refers to the scenario where the Hong Kong SAR Government gives out lump-sum cash allowances and tax rebates to its citizens, often after a good fiscal year leaves a large surplus on its books.

Example:

A: 香港政府为什么现在派糖?

Xiānggǎng zhèngfǔ wèishénme xiànzài pàitáng?

Why did the Hong Kong SAR Government give out cash allowances and tax rebates now?

B: 财政司司长陈茂波说,今年上半年香港经济增长不振,加上近期的社会事件打击了零售、餐饮和旅游业,希望减轻市民生活负担,刺激消费。

Cáizhèngsī sīzhǎng chénmàobō shuō,jīnnián shàngbànnián xiānggǎng jīngjì zēngzhǎng búzhèn,jiāshàng jìnqī de shèhuì shìjiàn dǎjī le língshòu、cānyǐn hé lǚyóuyè,xīwàng jiǎnqīng shìmín shēnghuó fùdān,cìjī xiāofèi。

Financial Secretary Chan Mo-po said the territory’s economic growth was slow in the first half of this year. The recent social unrest has dealt a blow to retail, catering and tourism industries. The move will relieve the financial burden on citizens and hopefully boost consumption.