gwok3 gaa1 gei1 hei3國家機器国家机器
Jyutpinggwok3 gaa1 gei1 hei3
Yalegwok gā gēi hei
Definition
State apparatus; the institutions and organizational machinery of a national government.
writtenother
How it's used
Refers specifically to the institutional structures and mechanisms of a state, such as the police, military, and legal systems. It carries a heavy, often critical or academic tone, frequently appearing in political commentary or discussions about power dynamics. Unlike everyday vocabulary, it is rarely used in casual conversation unless the speaker is intentionally discussing political theory or systemic control.
Examples
They are always talking about how the state apparatus operates.
Is this part of the state apparatus?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for literal machinery or industrial equipment, but it is strictly a political term. Avoid using it to describe actual tools or physical devices.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
