caak3 saan2拆散

Jyutpingcaak3 saan2

Yalechaak sáan

動詞Uncommon

Definition

To take apart, break up, or split things that belong together.

to dismantle or take apart a physical object
to break up or tear apart a relationship or group

colloquialdaily actionspeople

How it's used

Focuses on the act of dismantling or separating things that were previously joined or unified. While it applies to physical objects like machines or toys, it is frequently used metaphorically to describe the interference in human relationships or groups. It carries a slightly negative connotation when applied to people, implying an unwanted disruption of a bond.

Examples

keoi5佢dei6哋loeng5兩go3個hou2好jan1恩oi3愛，m4唔hou2好caak3拆saan3散jan4人dei6哋aa4呀。

They are a loving couple, don't break them up.

ni1呢go3個wun6玩geoi6具taai2太gau6舊，ngo5我caak3拆saan3散zo2咗keoi5佢lai4嚟jin4研gau3究。

This toy is too old, I took it apart to study it.

Common phrases

caak3拆saan3散gaa1家ting4庭

to break up a family

caak3拆saan3散jyun1鴛joeng1鴦

to break up a couple

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with 分開, which is a more general term for separating or being apart. 拆散 specifically implies that the items or people were originally held together or connected, and the act of separating them often requires effort or causes damage.