baa1 si2 lou2巴士佬
Jyutpingbaa1 si2 lou2
Yalebā sí lóu
Definition
Bus driver.
colloquialpeopletransport
How it's used
Using the suffix 佬 turns a professional title into a casual, often derogatory label that emphasizes the person's gender and perceived lack of refinement. While it is common to hear people use it when venting frustration about poor driving or service, it can sound rude or aggressive if used in front of the driver. It carries a similar social weight to calling someone a cabbie in a derogatory tone rather than just a professional driver.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
That bus driver is driving so fast, it's terrifying.
Related words
Common phrases
the bus driver skipped the stop
to scold the bus driver
Common mistake
Avoid using this term in professional settings or when speaking directly to a driver, as it is inherently disrespectful and implies a lack of status. It is strictly for venting or gossiping among friends.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
