zang1 zap1爭執争执
Jyutpingzang1 zap1
Yalejāng jāp
Definition
To dispute, quarrel, or argue over something.
neutralpeoplecommunication
How it's used
While 爭執 is a standard term for a dispute, it carries a slightly more formal or serious tone compared to the everyday 拗. You will often see it used in news reports or written accounts of conflicts, whereas in casual conversation, native speakers almost exclusively prefer 拗 or 嗌交.
Examples
The two of them have been arguing about money for a long time.
Why are you two arguing?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use 爭執 as a direct translation for any kind of disagreement, but it implies a more active, verbal confrontation. Avoid using it for simple differences of opinion where no actual arguing or quarreling has taken place.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
