baak3 zoek3伯爵
Jyutpingbaak3 zoek3
Yalebaak jeuk
Definition
Earl or count; the third rank of nobility in ancient China or European systems.
neutralpeople
How it's used
Primarily functions as a translation term for the European title of Earl or Count rather than a term used to describe actual historical Chinese figures in daily life. It follows the traditional five-rank system of nobility, sitting between the Marquis and the Viscount. It is almost exclusively encountered in the context of Western historical fiction, period dramas, or European royalty.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
This earl is very rich.
Related words
Common phrases
Earl Grey tea
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the tea variety Earl Grey, which is also translated using this term. Ensure context is clear so listeners do not think you are discussing nobility when you are actually ordering a beverage.
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.
