kok3 sau2恪守
Jyutpingkok3 sau2
Yalekok sáu
Definition
To abide by scrupulously; to cautiously and seriously adhere to rules, promises, or duties.
writtenother
How it's used
This term carries a formal and serious tone, often appearing in professional, legal, or moral contexts rather than casual conversation. It implies a sense of duty or honor, suggesting that the subject is not just following a rule, but is committed to maintaining a standard of conduct. You will frequently see it used alongside concepts like professional ethics, personal integrity, or strict regulations.
Examples
They abide by their promises and have never been late.
Are you able to strictly adhere to this rule?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this in casual settings where a simpler word like 守住 or 聽話 would be more natural. It is too heavy for everyday tasks like following a simple instruction from a friend.
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.
