caa4 gau3查究
Jyutpingcaa4 gau3
Yalechàh gau
Definition
To investigate, ascertain, and hold accountable.
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How it's used
Carries a formal and serious tone, often implying a search for accountability or the root cause of a problem. It is more commonly found in news reports, official statements, or formal workplace settings rather than casual conversation. Unlike simpler verbs for looking into things, this term suggests a thorough process that aims to reach a definitive conclusion or assign blame.
Examples
The police will investigate the details of this case.
You did something wrong, the company must investigate it.
Related words
Common phrases
investigate responsibility
investigate thoroughly
Common mistake
Learners often use this in casual settings where it sounds overly stiff or dramatic. For everyday situations like checking a schedule or looking up information, use 查 or 睇下 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
