zaak3 man6責問责问
Jyutpingzaak3 man6
Yalejaak mahn
Definition
To call to account, question, or interrogate someone in an accusing or demanding manner.
neutralworkcommunication
How it's used
This term carries a formal and serious tone, often implying a position of authority or a sense of moral indignation. It is rarely used in casual, friendly banter and is more common in professional or disciplinary contexts. It suggests a direct, face to face confrontation where someone is being held responsible for an error or a lapse in judgment.
Examples
The boss called him to account for why he was late.
Related words
Common phrases
sternly call to account
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with general questioning like 問. Remember that 責問 implies a critical, accusatory stance rather than a neutral request for information.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
