gung1 zai3公祭
Jyutpinggung1 zai3
Yalegūng jai
Definition
Public memorial service or ceremony held by institutions, organizations, or friends to honor the deceased.
neutralpeopleother
How it's used
Refers specifically to formal, organized memorial services held by groups, organizations, or the government rather than private family rites. It carries a solemn and public tone, often appearing in news reports or official announcements following major tragedies or the passing of public figures. It is distinct from private family rituals like 拜山 or 拜祭 which are rooted in kinship.
Measure word
coeng4場chèunghExamples
The government will hold a public memorial for this accident next week.
Do you know what time the public memorial tomorrow starts?
Related words
Common phrases
to hold a public memorial
to participate in a public memorial
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with private ancestral worship or family-led funeral rites, as it implies a collective or institutional act of mourning rather than a personal or familial duty.
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.
