jat1 gwok3 saam1 gung1一國三公一国三公
Jyutpingjat1 gwok3 saam1 gung1
Yaleyāt gwok sāam gūng
Definition
A state with three rulers, representing divided leadership or a lack of unified power.
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How it's used
Originating from the Zuo Zhuan, this idiom describes a situation where authority is fragmented among multiple competing centers of power. It is used to criticize organizations or projects that suffer from indecision or conflicting directives due to a lack of a single, clear leader. While it carries a formal, literary tone, it is frequently employed in professional or political contexts to highlight administrative dysfunction.
Examples
The company management is so chaotic, it is truly a case of divided leadership.
The departments have conflicting opinions, resulting in a state of divided leadership.
Related words
Common phrases
to result in divided leadership
to experience a situation of divided leadership
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple disagreement between two people, but it specifically implies a structural problem where multiple parties hold equal and conflicting authority, making it impossible to reach a unified decision.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
