bing1 tau4兵頭兵头
Jyutpingbing1 tau4
Yalebīng tàuh
Definition
A military commander; or historically, the Governor of Hong Kong during the colonial era.
- a military commander or officer in charge of a troop
- datedthe Governor of Hong Kong during the British colonial period
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Originally referring to a military commander, this term became a common, slightly irreverent nickname for the British Governor of Hong Kong. It reflects the colonial reality where the Governor held supreme authority, often viewed through a military lens. Using it today carries a nostalgic tone, specifically evoking the era before the 1997 handover.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
People used to call the Governor 'the commander' all the time.
Related words
Common phrases
the last Governor
Common mistake
Do not use this term to refer to modern government officials or leaders in other contexts, as it is strictly tied to the historical colonial administration of Hong Kong.
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.
