gu3 zoeng3故障
Jyutpinggu3 zoeng3
Yalegu jeung
Definition
Breakdown, malfunction, or failure of a machine or system.
neutraltechnologytransport
How it's used
Focuses on mechanical or technical failure rather than human error or general damage. It is a formal term often seen in public announcements, news reports, or technical manuals. In casual daily speech, people prefer using 壞咗 or 唔郁得嚟形容機器故障。
Examples
The computer suddenly broke down, I can't turn it on.
The elevator is out of order, everyone has to take the stairs.
Related words
Common phrases
to experience a breakdown
to troubleshoot or fix a breakdown
Common mistake
Avoid using this for personal items like a broken cup or a torn shirt, as it specifically implies a functional failure of a machine or system.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
