zam1 fung1 soeng1 deoi3針鋒相對针锋相对
Jyutpingzam1 fung1 soeng1 deoi3
Yalejām fūng sēung deui
Definition
To be diametrically opposed; to clash head-on, especially in opinions, words, or actions.
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How it's used
This idiom carries a strong sense of intense, combative rivalry where both parties are equally matched in their aggression or arguments. It is frequently used in professional or political contexts to describe direct, head-on confrontations. Unlike simple disagreement, it implies a sustained state of conflict where neither side is willing to back down.
Examples
They were diametrically opposed during the meeting, and the atmosphere was very tense.
Do you really have to stand in sharp opposition to others every single time?
Related words
Common phrases
a situation of sharp opposition
a heated, diametrically opposed debate
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple disagreement, but it specifically implies a high-stakes or sharp, pointed conflict. Avoid using it for minor differences of opinion, as it suggests a more serious, confrontational dynamic.
Grammar color guide
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Verb
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Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
