zang1 ji5爭議争议
Jyutpingzang1 ji5
Yalejāng yíh
Definition
Controversy; a heated discussion or debate arising from opposing viewpoints.
neutralcommunication
How it's used
Often used in formal or news contexts to describe public disagreement or conflicting opinions. While it functions as a noun, it frequently pairs with verbs like 引起 or 惹 to describe the act of sparking debate. It carries a weightier tone than simply saying people are arguing or disagreeing.
Examples
This matter has caused a lot of controversy.
Do you think this decision is controversial?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe simple, personal arguments between two people, as it implies a broader, more public or systemic disagreement. For personal squabbles, words like 嗌交 are more appropriate.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
