pun3 gun1判官
Jyutpingpun3 gun1
Yalepun gūn
Definition
An arbiter of justice, or a judge of souls in the underworld.
- a judge; arbiter; a person who upholds justice
- mythologya judge in the underworld who decides the fate of spirits
colloquialpeople
How it's used
Beyond the literal role of a legal judge, this term is frequently used metaphorically to describe someone who acts as a self-appointed moral arbiter. It carries a slightly critical tone when used in this way, implying the person is being judgmental or overstepping their boundaries. In traditional Chinese mythology, the figure is specifically associated with the underworld, making the term carry a heavy, final sense of judgment.
Measure word
wai6位waihExamples
He works as a judge in court and is very fair.
Who asked you to play judge and criticize everyone?
Related words
Common phrases
to act as a judge/arbiter
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 法官, which is the standard term for a legal judge in a courtroom. Using 判官 to refer to a professional judge in a formal context sounds overly dramatic or archaic, as if they are deciding the fate of souls rather than legal cases.
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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.
