fei1 jung4菲傭菲佣

Jyutpingfei1 jung4

Yalefēi yùngh

Definition

Filipino maid

colloquialpeoplehome

How it's used

While this term specifically refers to workers from the Philippines, it is often used as a generic label for any foreign domestic helper in Hong Kong regardless of their actual nationality. Using the term 姐姐 is generally considered more polite and respectful in direct conversation. The term is deeply embedded in the local social structure and reflects the common practice of families employing live-in help.

Measure word

go3個go

Examples

keoi5 uk1 kei2 ceng2 zo2 go3 fei1 jung4 bong1 sau2 zou6 gaa1 mou6

佢屋企請咗個菲傭幫手做家務。

Their family hired a Filipino domestic helper to help with housework.

nei5 uk1 kei2 go3 fei1 jung4 fong3 gaa3 heoi3 zo2 bin1 aa4

你屋企個菲傭放假去咗邊呀？

Where did your domestic helper go on her day off?

Common phrases

ceng2 fei1 jung4

請菲傭

to hire a Filipino domestic helper

fei1 jung4 ze1 ze1

菲傭姐姐

Filipino domestic helper (polite form)

Common mistake

Using this term to address a domestic helper directly can sound blunt or insensitive. It is much better to use 姐姐 or to address them by their name to show proper respect.