coeng1 gei6娼妓
Jyutpingcoeng1 gei6
Yalechēung geih
Definition
A prostitute, or the practice of prostitution.
- a prostitute; a person who provides sexual services for money
- prostitution; sex work in general
neutralpeopleother
How it's used
This term is formal and clinical, often appearing in news reports, legal discussions, or sociological contexts. It carries a detached, objective tone that contrasts with more common, derogatory, or euphemistic slang terms used in everyday street-level conversation. Using it in casual social settings can sound overly academic or stiff.
Examples
They want to push for the legalisation of prostitution.
There used to be many prostitutes hanging around this area.
Related words
Common phrases
legalisation of prostitution
crack down on prostitution
Common mistake
Avoid using this word to address someone directly, as it is highly offensive and dehumanizing in a personal context. Stick to neutral or descriptive language if you are not discussing the industry or legal status.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
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Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.



