zo2 zyu6阻住
Jyutpingzo2 zyu6
Yalejó jyuh
Definition
To block, obstruct, or get in the way of someone or something.
colloquialdaily actionspeople
How it's used
Often used with the particle 晒 to emphasize that the obstruction is total or annoying. It carries a slightly impatient tone when used to tell someone to move, but it is also a standard way to apologize for interrupting someone's work or conversation.
Examples
Sorry, I'm taking up a little bit of your time.
Related words
Common phrases
blocking the earth from turning (a sarcastic way to say someone is useless or in the way)
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 阻礙, which is a more formal or written term. Using 阻礙 in casual conversation can sound overly stiff or like a direct translation from written Chinese.
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.
