ding2 zong6頂撞顶撞
Jyutpingding2 zong6
Yaledíng johng
Definition
To contradict, talk back, or argue with a superior, such as a parent or teacher.
colloquialpeoplefamily
How it's used
This word carries a strong sense of disrespect and insubordination, specifically implying a challenge to someone with higher authority. It is rarely used for casual disagreements between peers, where terms like 駁嘴 are more appropriate. Using this word suggests that the speaker views the act as a moral or social transgression rather than just a difference of opinion.
Examples
Children shouldn't always contradict their elders.
Why are you so bold as to contradict your boss?
Related words
Common phrases
to contradict one's elders
to contradict one's superior
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 駁嘴, but 頂撞 is much more serious and implies a violation of hierarchy, whereas 駁嘴 is a general term for talking back or arguing, which can happen between friends or siblings.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
