zi6 gok3自覺自觉
Jyutpingzi6 gok3
Yalejih gok
Definition
To be aware of, or to do something of one's own initiative and conscientiously.
- to realize; to be aware of; to notice by oneself
- to be conscientious; to act of one's own initiative
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
Describes a sense of self-discipline or internal motivation where one performs tasks without needing external supervision or reminders. It often carries a positive connotation of maturity and responsibility, frequently used by parents or bosses to praise someone who takes initiative. When used as an adjective, it implies a person is proactive and reliable.
Examples
You need to be more conscientious at work; don't always wait for others to tell you what to do.
He is very self-disciplined; he does his homework as soon as he gets home.
Related words
Common phrases
to be self-motivated and proactive
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin usage where it can sometimes mean to feel or perceive something internally. In Cantonese, it leans heavily towards the sense of being self-disciplined or having the initiative to act correctly without being prompted.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
