gung1 dak1公德
Jyutpinggung1 dak1
Yalegūng dāk
Definition
Public-mindedness, concern for public welfare, or social morality.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Public-mindedness is almost always expressed using the phrase 公德心, which literally translates to public morality heart. Using just 公德 as a standalone noun is less common in casual speech, as it sounds slightly more abstract or formal. When criticizing someone's behavior, adding 心 makes the accusation feel more personal and direct.
Examples
You always jump the queue, you really lack social morality.
Talking loudly in public places shows a lack of public-mindedness.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 公德 with 道德, but 道德 refers to general morality or ethics in a broad sense, whereas 公德 specifically relates to behavior that affects the public or shared spaces.
Grammar color guide
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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.
