zok3 lok6作樂作乐
Jyutpingzok3 lok6
Yalejok lohk
Definition
To make merry, have fun, or enjoy oneself.
colloquialdaily actionsemotion
How it's used
Often carries a slightly negative or indulgent connotation, implying a focus on hedonistic or frivolous activities rather than simple relaxation. It is rarely used on its own as a standalone verb in casual speech, usually appearing as part of a four-character idiom or following a specific context like 尋歡.
Examples
The most important thing on holidays is knowing where to have fun.
You guys are always out seeking pleasure, don't you have work to do?
Related words
Common phrases
to seek pleasure and make merry
to find joy in the midst of suffering
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe simple, wholesome activities like reading a book or going for a walk, as it sounds like you are describing a wild party or debauchery.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
