zou6 faan2造反
Jyutpingzou6 faan2
Yalejouh fáan
Definition
To rebel; to rise up against authority one is supposed to be loyal to.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
While often used in historical or political contexts, this term is frequently employed in daily life to describe someone, such as a child or subordinate, who is acting out or defying authority. It carries a slightly dramatic or humorous tone when applied to minor disobedience. It implies a breach of loyalty or a challenge to the established hierarchy.
Examples
Those kids are rebelling; they won't listen to anything.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 革命, which refers to a formal political revolution. 造反 focuses on the act of defying a specific superior or authority figure rather than a systemic change in government.
Grammar color guide
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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.
