zi1 cing4知情
Jyutpingzi1 cing4
Yalejī chìhng
Definition
To know the facts or details of an incident; to be in the know.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
Focuses on being privy to inside information or secret details rather than just having general knowledge. It is frequently used in legal or formal contexts, such as investigations or workplace disputes, to describe someone who has information but may or may not be involved. When used in casual conversation, it often carries a slightly serious or investigative tone.
Examples
He is completely unaware of the details of this matter.
Related words
Common phrases
to know the facts but fail to report them
fully aware of the details
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 知道, which is a general term for knowing facts. 知情 specifically implies that there is a hidden or sensitive situation involved, so it sounds unnatural if used for simple facts like knowing someone's name or the time.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
