cik1斥
Jyutpingcik1
Yalechīk
Definition
To scold, reprimand, or reject.
- to scold or reprimand
- to repel, reject, or exclude
writtenpeoplecommunication
How it's used
Unlike the everyday word 鬧, which is used in almost any context of scolding, 斥 is almost exclusively found in formal or written contexts like news reports or official reprimands. It carries a sense of stern, authoritative disapproval rather than a casual argument between friends. You will rarely hear it spoken aloud in casual conversation unless someone is mimicking a formal tone or reading from a document.
Examples
He is always scolding the kids, he is so fierce.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use 斥 as a direct synonym for 鬧 in daily speech, which sounds unnatural and overly dramatic. Stick to 鬧 or 鬧交 for everyday disagreements and reserve 斥 for formal settings.
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.
