aa3 ji4阿姨

Jyutpingaa3 ji4

Yalea yìh

Common

Definition

Aunt, specifically one's mother's younger sister; or a polite address for a middle-aged woman.

mother's younger sister; maternal aunt
polite term of address for a middle-aged woman

colloquialfamilypeople

How it's used

Using this term for strangers is a common way to show politeness and friendliness in daily life. It is typically reserved for women who appear to be around the same age as one's mother or older. While it implies a sense of respect, it can sometimes be perceived as highlighting a person's age, so use it with a friendly tone.

Measure word

go3個go

Examples

ngo5我ting1聽jat6日wui2會heoi3去taam3探aa3阿ji4姨。

I will go visit my aunt tomorrow.

aa3阿ji1姨，nei1呢dou6度jau5有mou5冇wai6位co5坐aa4呀？

Excuse me, is there a seat available here?

Common phrases

cing1清git3潔aa3阿ji1姨

cleaning lady

caa4茶lau4樓aa3阿ji1姨

waitress at a dim sum restaurant

Common mistake

Avoid using this term for a woman who is clearly much younger than your mother, as it may be interpreted as calling her old. In professional settings or when addressing someone younger, use more neutral titles or simply avoid a direct address.