waan4 sau2還手还手
Jyutpingwaan4 sau2
Yalewàahn sáu
Definition
To strike back or hit back when attacked.
colloquialdaily actionspeople
How it's used
Focuses specifically on physical retaliation rather than verbal arguments or general revenge. It implies a defensive reaction to an initial act of physical aggression. While it can be used in serious contexts, it often appears in warnings during heated arguments to signal that one is prepared to defend themselves.
Examples
He punched me, and I hit back immediately.
If you keep pushing me around, I'm going to hit back!
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this for verbal arguments or non-physical retaliation. For verbal arguments, use 駁嘴 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
