baak6 paai2白牌
Jyutpingbaak6 paai2
Yalebaahk páai
Definition
Unlicensed, unofficial, or unregistered, especially referring to private vehicles used as illegal taxis.
colloquialtransport
How it's used
Historically, this term referred to illegal taxis that lacked the official red or green license plates. It now carries a strong connotation of being unsafe or lacking insurance coverage, so it is often used as a warning to others. While the term originated from the white license plates these vehicles once used, it is now applied broadly to any vehicle operating as a taxi without a proper permit.
Measure word
gaa3架gaExamples
That is an unlicensed car, do not just hop in.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal description of a white license plate, but it specifically implies illegal transport services. Do not use it to describe a legal car that just happens to be white.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
