daai6 lou5 je4大老爺大老爷
Jyutpingdaai6 lou5 je4
Yaledaaih lóuh yèh
Definition
An influential person or powerful authority figure, such as an official.
colloquialpeople
How it's used
Originally referring to high ranking officials in imperial times, the term is now used sarcastically to describe someone who acts entitled or arrogant. It carries a strong sense of mockery, implying the person thinks they are above everyone else. You will often hear it used when someone is being uncooperative or demanding special treatment.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He acts like he is some big shot, always bossing people around.
Do you think you can solve it just by finding some powerful figure to help?
Related words
Common phrases
to act like a big shot
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 老爺, which is the traditional term for a father in law. Using 大老爺 in a family context might cause confusion or sound like you are making a strange joke about your father in law.
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.
