zou1 zat1糟質糟质
Jyutpingzou1 zat1
Yalejōu jāt
Definition
To treat someone harshly, be mean to them, or mock them; to ruin or wreck an object.
- to treat someone harshly; to be mean to; to mock or taunt
- to ruin, wreck, or spoil an object
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of unfair or cruel treatment, often implying that the victim is in a vulnerable position. It is frequently used when someone is being physically or emotionally worn down, whether by a person or by their own neglect. The term implies a lack of respect for the value of the person or object being mistreated.
Examples
He is always picking on the new colleagues, it is so annoying.
Related words
Common phrases
to neglect or mistreat oneself
to ruin or wreck things
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simple teasing or joking. It implies a level of malice or destructive behavior that goes beyond lighthearted banter.
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.
