zung1 lit6忠烈
Jyutpingzung1 lit6
Yalejūng liht
Definition
People who died as martyrs; those who sacrificed their lives in loyalty to their community.
writtenpeopleother
How it's used
Refers specifically to those who have died in service of a cause or country, carrying a strong sense of historical or moral reverence. It is rarely used in casual daily conversation and is typically found in formal contexts, historical accounts, or when visiting memorial sites like 忠烈祠. Using it to describe someone who died in a mundane or non-heroic way would sound highly sarcastic or inappropriate.
Examples
They are martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country.
Many martyrs are enshrined here.
Related words
Common phrases
martyrs' shrine
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with general terms for heroes like 英雄, as 忠烈 specifically implies death in the line of duty or sacrifice for a greater cause.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
