daai6 go1大哥

Jyutpingdaai6 go1

Yaledaaih gō

名詞Very common

Definition

The eldest brother in a family.

colloquialfamilypeople

How it's used

While literally meaning the eldest brother, this term is frequently used as a respectful or slightly informal way to address older men in general. It carries a sense of camaraderie or deference, similar to calling someone a big brother figure. In some contexts, it can even be used sarcastically to address someone who is acting bossy or overbearing.

Measure word

go3個go

Examples

ngo5我daai6大go1哥hou2好sek3錫ngo5我，seng4成jat6日maai5買je5嘢bei2畀ngo5我sik6食。

My eldest brother is very fond of me and always buys me food.

nei5你daai6大go1哥hai6係mai6咪喺hai2嗰go2間gaan1公gung1司si1做zou6嘢㗎？

Does your eldest brother work at that company?

Common phrases

daai6大go1哥daai6大

big brother (often used for a boss or a very influential person)

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with 大佬, which is often used in gang culture or to refer to a boss or leader. While they can overlap, 大哥 feels more familial or respectful, whereas 大佬 can imply a hierarchical power dynamic or criminal affiliation.