zuk1 zau2祝酒
Jyutpingzuk1 zau2
Yalejūk jáu
Definition
To propose or drink a toast at the beginning of a feast or banquet.
neutralfoodpeople
How it's used
Focuses specifically on the formal act of raising a glass to offer congratulations or well wishes during a banquet or celebration. It implies a structured moment where attention is directed toward the person or event being honored. Unlike casual drinking, this carries a sense of ceremony and social obligation.
Examples
The boss stood up to propose a toast, everyone needs to have a drink.
Have you prepared your toast speech yet?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this for casual drinking with friends, as it sounds overly formal and stiff. For a simple cheers, use 飲杯 instead.
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.
