zing1 sau1徵收征收
Jyutpingzing1 sau1
Yalejīng sāu
Definition
To levy, impose, or collect money or resources by a government.
writtenmoneywork
How it's used
Formal in nature, this term is almost exclusively reserved for official government actions involving taxes, land, or resources. It carries a sense of authority and legal mandate that distinguishes it from everyday words for collecting or gathering. While it appears in news reports and official documents, it is rarely used in casual conversation unless discussing public policy.
Examples
The government decided to levy additional taxes.
Are they planning to requisition the land?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this for collecting personal debts or gathering items from friends, as it implies a state-sanctioned power to seize or demand payment. Use 收 or 攞 for informal contexts instead.
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.
