zai3 coi4制裁
Jyutpingzai3 coi4
Yalejai chòih
Definition
Sanction; to impose a sanction or punishment.
neutralother
How it's used
Used primarily in formal, political, or economic contexts, this term carries a heavy weight and is rarely used in casual daily conversation. It typically appears in news reports or discussions regarding international relations. When discussing the act of imposing sanctions, the verb 實施 is the most common collocation.
Measure word
ci3次chiExamples
They decided to impose sanctions on that company.
Do you think this round of sanctions will be effective?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 懲罰, but 懲罰 is a general term for punishment, whereas 制裁 specifically refers to formal, often state-level or organizational, punitive measures against a group or entity.
Grammar color guide
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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.
