zat1 man6質問质问
Jyutpingzat1 man6
Yalejāt mahn
Definition
To question or interrogate someone, demanding a reasonable explanation because of suspicion.
colloquialcommunicationwork
How it's used
Implies a confrontational or accusatory tone rather than a simple request for information. It is used when someone feels wronged or suspicious and demands an explanation or justification for an action. Unlike asking a question, this carries the weight of holding someone accountable for their behavior.
Examples
He questioned the manager at the meeting as to why people were fired.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simple questioning or asking for information, which is better expressed as 問 or 查問. Using 質問 in a casual, neutral context will make you sound unnecessarily aggressive or hostile.
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.
