baak6 siu2 ze2白小姐
Jyutpingbaak6 siu2 ze2
Yalebaahk síu jé
Definition
An appellation for Ms. Peck, or more generally, Ms. White.
colloquialpeople
How it's used
Using a surname followed by小姐 is the standard way to address a woman politely in professional or semi-formal settings. It functions similarly to Ms in English and is much more common than using full names when speaking to someone directly. When referring to someone you know well, it is often dropped in favor of a nickname or a title like 姐.
Examples
Will Ms Peck be going to work today?
I just saw Ms Peck waiting for the bus downstairs.
Common mistake
Avoid using this to address a woman whose surname you do not know, as it sounds unnatural. If you are unsure of the surname, it is better to use a generic term like 小姐 or a title based on their profession.
Grammar color guide
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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.
