zi1 jiu5滋擾滋扰
Jyutpingzi1 jiu5
Yalejī yíuh
Definition
To cause trouble
neutralother
How it's used
Carries a formal or legalistic weight, often appearing in official warnings, building management notices, or police reports. While it can describe general annoyance, it frequently implies a persistent or repetitive action that infringes on someone's rights or peace. It is rarely used for minor, fleeting inconveniences between close friends.
Examples
keoi5 seng4 jat6 hai2 dou6 zi1 jiu2 di1 neoi5 zai2 hou2 hat1 jan4 zang1
佢成日喺度滋擾啲女仔，好乞人憎。
He is always harassing girls there, it's so annoying.
nei5 zoi3 zi1 jiu2 ngo5 zou6 je5 ngo5 zau6 bou3 ging2 gaa2 laa1
你再滋擾我做嘢，我就報警㗎喇！
If you disturb my work again, I'm calling the police!
Related words
Common phrases
sing3 zi1 jiu2
性滋擾
sexual harassment
zi1 jiu2 hang4 wai4
滋擾行為
harassing behavior
Common mistake
Learners often use it for minor annoyances like someone talking too loud, but it is too strong for casual social situations. Use 煩住 for everyday interruptions instead.
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
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.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- 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.
