aat3 zai3壓制压制
Jyutpingaat3 zai3
Yaleaat jai
Definition
To suppress or oppress freedom, ideas, or people through force or pressure.
neutralpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This term carries a heavy, formal tone often associated with power dynamics, authority, or political contexts. It implies an active, forceful effort to keep something down or prevent it from surfacing. Unlike milder verbs for stopping or controlling, this word suggests a deliberate exertion of pressure to maintain dominance or silence opposition.
Examples
They want to suppress dissenting opinions.
Why do you have to suppress my ideas?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 壓住, which is a literal, physical action like holding something down with your hand. Using 壓制 for physical objects sounds unnatural or overly dramatic.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
