zaang1諍诤
Jyutpingzaang1
Yalejāang
Definition
An alternative form of "爭" (zaang1), meaning to fight, argue, or compete.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Standard written Chinese uses 爭, but in Cantonese, the character is almost exclusively used for the verb meaning to fight, compete, or vie for something. It is rarely used in its literary sense of remonstrating or advising a superior. When used in speech, it is often paired with reduplication to emphasize the ongoing or repetitive nature of the conflict.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the Mandarin usage where it can appear in formal compounds. In Cantonese, avoid using it in formal or literary contexts unless you are specifically writing in a style that mimics traditional prose.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
