gaa3 fe1 zai2咖啡仔
Jyutpinggaa3 fe1 zai2
Yalega fē jái
Definition
A traffic warden, parking inspector, or parking enforcement officer.
colloquialpeopletransport
How it's used
This term is a classic piece of Hong Kong street slang that humorously likens the brown uniform of traffic wardens to the color of coffee. It is used exclusively to refer to those who issue parking tickets, not to police officers who handle moving traffic violations. Using this term carries a slightly dismissive or wary tone, reflecting the common frustration drivers feel when they spot one nearby.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
There is a traffic warden issuing a ticket up ahead.
You have been parked there for so long, watch out for the traffic warden.
Related words
Common phrases
traffic warden issuing a ticket
Common mistake
Do not use this term in formal settings or when speaking to the officers directly, as it is considered disrespectful. Also, ensure you do not confuse it with 咖啡, which simply refers to the drink.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
