aa3 ding2阿頂阿顶
Jyutpingaa3 ding2
Yalea díng
Definition
The boss or leader of a group, especially in a gang.
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
Refers specifically to a superior or leader in a casual, often slightly irreverent way. It carries a sense of familiarity that makes it inappropriate for formal business settings or when addressing someone with high social status. It is most commonly heard in workplaces or among groups of friends describing their respective leaders.
Examples
The boss isn't coming in today, if you need anything just find his assistant.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to address the person directly, as it can sound disrespectful or overly familiar. It is strictly a third-person reference used when talking about the boss to others.
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.
