zi2 zaak3指責指责
Jyutpingzi2 zaak3
Yalejí jaak
Definition
To criticize, scold, or point out someone's mistakes.
neutralworkcommunication
How it's used
Carries a formal and serious tone, often implying a sense of blame or moral judgment. It is more intense than simply saying someone is wrong or complaining about them. In casual daily life, people are much more likely to use 鬧 or 批評 instead.
Examples
He made a mistake, don't criticize him so loudly.
Why do you have to criticize me for not working fast enough?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual conversation with friends, as it sounds overly formal or aggressive. It is better suited for professional settings, news reports, or serious arguments.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
