hin2 zaak3譴責谴责
Jyutpinghin2 zaak3
Yalehín jaak
Definition
To condemn, reprimand, or denounce.
writtencommunication
How it's used
This term carries a formal and serious weight, often appearing in news reports or official statements regarding moral or political misconduct. While it can be used in interpersonal contexts to mean a stern reprimand, it is significantly heavier than everyday words like 鬧 or 責備. Using it in casual conversation can sound overly dramatic or like you are reading from a newspaper.
Examples
He did something wrong and got a good scolding from the boss.
Why do you have to condemn his decision?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use this word for minor personal mistakes, but it is too strong for daily life; stick to 鬧 or 責備 when talking about friends or family.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
