zok3 zong6作狀作状
Jyutpingzok3 zong6
Yalejok johng
Definition
To act affectedly, put on airs, or behave in an unnatural and ostentatious manner.
- to put on airs; to act in a fake manner to impress others
- figurativeto be overacting or unnatural in one's gestures or performance
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on the performative aspect of someone trying too hard to appear sophisticated, elegant, or cool. It carries a strong sense of disapproval or annoyance, implying that the person is being fake or unnatural. It is frequently used to call out someone who is acting out of character to impress others.
Examples
The way they talk is so affected, it really gives me goosebumps.
Stop putting on an act, you aren't usually like this, are you?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 扮嘢, which is a broader term for acting or playing a role. 作狀 specifically highlights the pretentious, affected, or over-the-top nature of the behavior.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
