zo2 ngoi6阻礙阻碍
Jyutpingzo2 ngoi6
Yalejó ngoih
Definition
To hinder, block, or obstruct something to prevent its smooth passage or development.
colloquialdaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
While 阻礙 is used in formal or written contexts, Cantonese speakers almost exclusively use 阻住 in daily speech. The character 住 acts as a continuous aspect marker here, emphasizing that the obstruction is currently happening. It is very common to add the intensifier 晒 to express that someone is blocking the entire space or path.
Related words
Common phrases
to be a complete nuisance
Common mistake
Learners often use 阻礙 in casual conversation where it sounds overly stiff or academic. Use 阻住 for physical blocking or interrupting someone, and reserve 阻礙 for abstract concepts like progress or development.
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.
