faan1 jan4番人
Jyutpingfaan1 jan4
Yalefāan yàhn
Definition
Foreigner; outsider.
colloquialpeople
How it's used
Carries a dated and slightly derogatory nuance, reflecting historical attitudes toward Westerners. It is rarely used by younger generations today, who prefer more neutral terms like 外國人. Using it can sound old fashioned or intentionally provocative depending on the context.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
People in the past really liked calling foreigners 'gweilo'.
Related words
Common phrases
foreigners (general derogatory term)
Common mistake
Avoid using this term in professional or polite settings as it can be perceived as xenophobic or offensive. It is strictly colloquial and carries a colonial era weight that is best avoided in modern conversation.
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.
