kung4 bing1 duk6 mou5窮兵黷武穷兵黩武
Jyutpingkung4 bing1 duk6 mou5
Yalekùhng bīng duhk móuh
Definition
To wage wars incessantly or wantonly deploy military force.
writtenother
How it's used
This is a formal idiom rooted in classical Chinese that carries a strong negative connotation of recklessness and aggression. It is rarely used in casual daily chatter and is instead reserved for political commentary, historical analysis, or criticizing leaders who prioritize military expansion over the welfare of their citizens.
Examples
Their government is always waging war, causing the people to suffer.
Why does your country wage war instead of developing the economy?
Related words
Common phrases
militarist policies
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple verb meaning to fight, but it specifically implies a systemic, long-term policy of military expansionism rather than a single act of combat.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
