guk1 gung1鞠躬

Jyutpingguk1 gung1

Yalegūk gūng

動詞Common

Definition

To bow; bending the upper body forward while keeping the legs straight to show respect or apology.

neutralpeopledaily actions

How it's used

This term is primarily used in formal or ceremonial contexts rather than casual social interactions. While it describes a physical action, it is often associated with specific rituals like school assemblies, funerals, or formal stage performances. It implies a level of respect or apology that is more structured than a simple nod or greeting.

Examples

keoi5佢dei6哋喺soeng6向hoeng3觀gun1眾zung3鞠guk1躬。

They are bowing to the audience on stage.

gin3見dou2到lou5老si1師gei3記dak1得jiu3要guk1鞠gung1躬aa4呀。

Remember to bow when you see your teacher.

Common phrases

sam1深sam1深guk1鞠gung1躬

a deep bow

guk1鞠gung1躬zi3致ging3敬

to bow as a sign of respect

Common mistake

Avoid using this to describe casual greetings, as it sounds overly formal or dramatic in everyday conversation. For informal situations, people typically just nod or say hello.