fu1 jan4夫人
Jyutpingfu1 jan4
Yalefū yàhn
Definition
An honorific term for someone's wife; Madame or Lady.
neutralpeople
How it's used
Using this term to address someone directly can sound overly formal or even slightly archaic in modern Hong Kong. It is mostly reserved for high society events, official introductions, or when referring to the wives of prominent figures. In everyday conversation, people prefer using the person's surname followed by 太太.
Measure word
wai6位waihExamples
Will Mrs. Chan be attending today?
Related words
Common phrases
First Lady
Common mistake
Avoid using this to address your own wife or a friend's wife in casual settings, as it creates an awkward, stiff distance. Stick to 太太 for standard polite reference.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
