faan1 gwai2 zai2番鬼仔
Jyutpingfaan1 gwai2 zai2
Yalefāan gwái jái
Definition
A young male Westerner, typically of Caucasian descent, with slightly derogatory connotations.
colloquialpeople
How it's used
Using the character 番 carries a historical connotation of viewing foreigners as outsiders or barbarians. While it is often used casually without malicious intent, it can sound dated or slightly xenophobic compared to the more neutral 鬼仔. It is specifically reserved for young Caucasian males and would sound very strange if applied to other ethnicities.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
That young foreign guy doesn't seem to know how to speak Cantonese.
Related words
Common phrases
Westernized personality
Common mistake
Avoid using this term in professional or formal settings, as it can be perceived as offensive or rude due to the historical baggage of the word 番. Stick to 鬼仔 or simply 外國人 if you want to be polite.
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.
