fong4 jyu6防禦防御
Jyutpingfong4 jyu6
Yalefòhng yuh
Definition
To defend or guard against; to protect oneself from attack or minimize damage.
neutralother
How it's used
防禦 is a formal term often used in contexts like military strategy, sports tactics, or cybersecurity. In casual daily conversation, people are much more likely to use the simpler verb 避 or the phrase 守住 to express the idea of protecting oneself or a position.
Examples
They need to strengthen their defense so they don't get breached.
How do you defend against this kind of computer virus?
Related words
Common phrases
defensive fortifications
defensive capability
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general word for protection, but it specifically implies a response to an active threat or attack. Using it to describe simply keeping something safe, like keeping a room clean, sounds unnatural and overly dramatic.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
