zok3 gang2作梗
Jyutpingzok3 gang2
Yalejok gáng
Definition
To deliberately obstruct, create difficulties, or place obstacles in the way.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Implies a deliberate, often sneaky attempt to sabotage someone's plans or progress. It is frequently used to describe someone acting as a hidden obstacle rather than an open opponent. The phrase carries a slightly formal or literary weight despite being used in everyday speech to describe frustrating social or professional interference.
Examples
Who exactly is causing trouble here?
He is always causing obstructions behind my back, it is so annoying.
Related words
Common phrases
to cause trouble behind someone's back
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with general obstacles or physical barriers, as it specifically refers to human agency and intentional mischief. It is not used for inanimate objects blocking a path.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
