zuk1 naa4捉拿
Jyutpingzuk1 naa4
Yalejūk nàh
Definition
To track down and arrest, usually referring to criminals.
writtenpeopleother
How it's used
This term carries a formal and slightly dramatic tone, often appearing in news reports or crime dramas. It implies a sense of pursuit and official authority that simple words like 捉 do not convey. Using it in casual conversation about everyday objects or small animals will sound overly serious or theatrical.
Examples
The police have already arrested that thief.
Do you know who is responsible for arresting them?
Related words
Common phrases
to arrest and bring to justice
to arrest a wanted criminal
Common mistake
Learners often use this for catching everyday items like a ball or a bus, but it is strictly reserved for law enforcement capturing fugitives or criminals. For general catching, use 捉 instead.
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.
