fok3攫
Jyutpingfok3
Yalefok
Definition
To seize, grab, or snatch with hands or claws.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
This verb carries a strong sense of aggressive or greedy movement, often implying a lack of manners or a predatory intent. While it can describe physical grabbing, it is frequently used metaphorically to describe someone trying to secure power, profit, or resources for themselves at the expense of others. It is much more vivid and forceful than the neutral word 攞.
Examples
As soon as he saw the money, he grabbed it and wouldn't let go.
Why did you snatch that document away from them?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use this word in neutral contexts where 攞 or 拎 would be more appropriate. Using 攫 implies a level of hostility or desperation that makes it sound out of place when describing simple, everyday actions like picking up a pen or taking a cup.
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.
