zoeng1張张
Jyutpingzoeng1
Yalejēung
Definition
To open; to spread; to stretch.
colloquialdaily actionsbody
How it's used
While this character functions as a common measure word for flat objects, its verbal sense of opening or spreading is primarily restricted to specific compound verbs. It is most frequently encountered in the phrase 張開, which is used for body parts like eyes, mouths, or arms. Unlike the more general verb 開, which can mean to open a door or start a machine, this character emphasizes the physical act of stretching or expanding something outwards.
Measure word
zoeng1張jēungExamples
Open your mouth and let the doctor take a look.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the general verb 開. Remember that this character is rarely used as a standalone verb in modern speech and usually requires a second character to form a complete verbal phrase.
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.
