zaang1 zoi6爭在争在
Jyutpingzaang1 zoi6
Yalejāang joih
Definition
To remain or be left over; also to depend on or be up to.
- to remain; to be left over
- to depend on; to be up to
colloquialdaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
This expression highlights the final remaining condition or obstacle before a goal is achieved. It carries a sense of impatience or finality, often implying that everything else is already in place. It is frequently followed by the particle 啫 to emphasize that the remaining task is minor or trivial.
Examples
Everything is settled, it just depends on the signature.
Where do you guys want to go? It's just waiting on his decision.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the verb 爭 meaning to fight or to lack. Remember that 爭在 functions specifically as a marker for a remaining condition, not as a verb for competition.
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.
