chop-chop
UK[ˌtʃɒp ˈtʃɒp]US[ˌtɑːp ˈtɑːp]
adv
quickly; without delay
interj
used to urge someone to hurry up
Etymology
the term "chop-chop" entered english in the 19th century through pidgin english used in chinese ports and among sailors. it is a reduplication of the pidgin word "chop," which meant "quick" and is thought to be a corruption of the cantonese word for "urgent" or a similar term from a southern chinese dialect. this linguistic borrowing reflects the trade interactions between british merchants and chinese counterparts, where such pidgin phrases were essential for basic communication. the reduplicated form "chop-chop" serves to intensify the command, creating a memorable and emphatic call for immediate action that became firmly established in colloquial english.
Analysis
this is a reduplication of the english word "chop," which in this context is a pidgin english term meaning "quick" or "fast," likely derived from cantonese "急" (kap1) meaning "urgent" or from a southern chinese dialect word for "quick."
Examples
we need to finish this report chop-chop if we want to meet the deadline.
"chop-chop!" the coach yelled, clapping his hands to get the players moving.
let's get this mess cleaned up chop-chop before the guests arrive.