gung1 hoi2公海
Jyutpinggung1 hoi2
Yalegūng hói
Definition
High seas or international waters; also used figuratively for public spaces on the internet.
- high seas; international waters not belonging to any country
- figurativepublic web pages or app interfaces accessible to anyone on the internet
neutralplacesother
How it's used
Beyond the literal maritime meaning, this term is frequently used metaphorically to describe online spaces or platforms that are unregulated, borderless, or accessible to everyone without restriction. It carries a sense of lawlessness or a 'wild west' atmosphere where traditional jurisdictional rules do not apply. When used in this figurative sense, it often implies that content or behavior is beyond the reach of local authorities.
Examples
That ship is currently sailing in international waters.
Do you know where the international waters actually are?
Related words
Common phrases
navigation on the high seas
enter international waters
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
