zap1 zeng3執正执正
Jyutpingzap1 zeng3
Yalejāp jeng
Definition
To tidy up, arrange neatly, or make presentable.
colloquialdaily actionshome
How it's used
Focuses on the act of bringing something into a proper or presentable state, often implying that the current state is sloppy or disorderly. It is frequently used for personal appearance, such as fixing one's hair or clothes, as well as organizing physical spaces. The term carries a sense of urgency or a suggestion that the current state is unacceptable.
Examples
Tidy yourself up before you head out.
The room is such a mess, when are you going to tidy it up?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the phrase 執生, which means to improvise or adapt to a situation. While both start with 執, they have completely different meanings and contexts.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
