gwok3 soeng1國殤国殇
Jyutpinggwok3 soeng1
Yalegwok sēung
Definition
People who died for their country, or a national tragedy or war in which they died.
- people who died for their country
- a national tragedy or war in which many people died for their country
writtenpeopleplaces
How it's used
Primarily encountered in formal names of monuments and cemeteries rather than in casual conversation. It carries a solemn, respectful tone associated with historical remembrance. Using it to describe modern or casual deaths would be inappropriate and confusing.
Examples
We went to the Sai Wan War Cemetery today.
This is a place to commemorate those who died for the country, so do not speak loudly.
Related words
Common phrases
Remembrance Day
War Cemetery
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general term for any death, but it specifically implies a sacrifice made for the nation or during wartime. It is not a synonym for death in a general sense.
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.
