hon3 gaan1漢奸汉奸
Jyutpinghon3 gaan1
Yalehon gāan
Definition
A Chinese person who is accused of betraying China; a traitor to China.
colloquialpeople
How it's used
This term carries an extremely strong, derogatory weight and is used to label someone as a traitor to their own people or country. It is rarely used in a neutral or political science context, functioning instead as a powerful insult in heated arguments or nationalist discourse. Calling someone this is a serious accusation that can easily escalate a conflict.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He always speaks for outsiders, he really is a traitor.
Why are you helping them? Are you a traitor?
Related words
Common phrases
to act as a traitor
Common mistake
Do not use this word lightly or as a general term for someone who disagrees with you, as it implies a deep, moral betrayal of one's heritage or nation. Using it in casual settings can be seen as highly aggressive or offensive.
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.
