haak3 zo2嚇阻吓阻
Jyutpinghaak3 zo2
Yalehaak jó
Definition
To deter; to discourage or prevent someone from taking action through fear or doubt.
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How it's used
This term is primarily used in formal, legal, or political contexts rather than everyday casual conversation. It carries a sense of strategic prevention, often involving the threat of consequences or the implementation of barriers to discourage specific actions. In more informal settings, people are much more likely to use phrases like 阻住 or 唔畀.
Examples
They use heavy fines to deter rule-breaking behavior.
Can this kind of measure really deter crimes from happening?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common verb for scaring someone, but 嚇阻 is specifically about deterrence through policy or threat of punishment. If you just want to say someone is scared, use 嚇親 instead.
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.
