baak6 tau4 lou2白头佬

Jyutpingbaak6 tau4 lou2
Yalebakh tàuh lóu

Definition

A traffic police officer [colloquial]

colloquialpeopletransport

How it's used

This term functions as a slang nickname for traffic police officers because of their distinctive white helmets. It can also be used literally to describe any older man with grey or white hair, so context is essential to determine if the speaker is referring to a police officer or just someone's appearance. Using it for police is common in informal settings, especially when warning others about speed traps.

Measure word

go3go

Examples

cin4 min6 jau5 baak6 tau4 lou2 zuk1 gan2 ciu1 cuk1 aa4
前面有白頭佬捉緊超速呀。
There is a traffic cop catching speeders up ahead.
go2 go3 baak6 tau4 lou2 seng4 jat6 hai2 ni1 dou6 ceon4 lo4
嗰個白頭佬成日喺呢度巡邏。
That white-haired guy is always patrolling around here.

Common phrases

baak6 tau4 lou2 zuk1 ce1
白頭佬捉車
traffic police catching speeding vehicles

Common mistake

Be careful not to use this term in a formal or professional setting, as it can sound disrespectful or overly casual. When referring to a police officer, ensure the context makes it clear you are talking about a traffic cop, otherwise, people might simply think you are describing an elderly man.

Tone guide

T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level