gaam1 caat3監察监察
Jyutpinggaam1 caat3
Yalegāam chaat
Definition
To monitor, supervise, or keep a close watch on something to ensure everything is in order.
neutralworkdaily actions
How it's used
While often used in formal or professional contexts like management or government oversight, it can also be applied to everyday tasks like watching a pot on the stove. It implies a sense of responsibility or duty to ensure that things proceed according to plan. Unlike simply looking at something, it carries the weight of active monitoring and potential intervention.
Examples
They hired someone to supervise the progress of the project.
Can you help me keep an eye on the stove?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 睇住, which is much more casual and can simply mean to look after or watch over someone or something without the formal implication of oversight or control.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
