zak1 muk6側目侧目
Jyutpingzak1 muk6
Yalejāk muhk
Definition
To look askance with fear and anger; to cause people to look with annoyance or apprehension.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
Unlike the standard Mandarin usage which often implies looking at someone with disdain or jealousy, the Cantonese usage leans heavily into the reaction of others being unsettled or offended by inappropriate behavior. It describes a situation where someone's actions are so disruptive that those around them feel a mix of intimidation and irritation. It is a formal way to describe a social reaction to someone breaking unspoken rules.
Examples
He keeps shouting in public, making people feel annoyed and uncomfortable.
Doing that will make people look at you with anger and fear, stop causing trouble.
Related words
Common phrases
to draw annoyed or fearful looks from others
to cause people to be unsettled and angry
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for simply looking sideways or glancing at someone. In Cantonese, it specifically carries the weight of a negative social reaction rather than just a physical movement of the eyes.
Grammar color guide
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Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
