giu3 zan6叫陣叫阵
Jyutpinggiu3 zan6
Yalegiu jahn
Definition
To challenge an opponent to fight; to provoke or defy.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Originally derived from historical military tactics where opposing armies would stand at a distance and shout insults to goad the enemy into battle. In modern daily life, it describes any form of aggressive posturing or verbal provocation meant to incite a confrontation. It carries a sense of performative hostility rather than just a simple disagreement.
Examples
Those two groups are challenging each other to a fight on the street.
Why did you go and provoke them for no reason?
Related words
Common phrases
go out to provoke a fight
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a formal challenge or a sports competition, as it implies a confrontational, often street-level or gang-related context. It is strictly for hostile situations where one party is actively trying to start a fight.
Grammar color guide
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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.
