zan3 aat3鎮壓镇压
Jyutpingzan3 aat3
Yalejan aat
Definition
To suppress, quell, or put down a riot or protest using force.
neutralworkother
How it's used
This term carries a heavy, formal tone and is almost exclusively used in political or historical contexts involving state power or military force. It implies a top down, authoritative action to restore order by force. It is rarely used in casual conversation to describe minor conflicts or personal disagreements.
Examples
The government sent in the army to suppress that riot.
How did they suppress that group of protesters?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this word to describe suppressing personal feelings or minor arguments, as it sounds overly dramatic and militaristic in those contexts.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
