gaa3 fe1 mui6咖啡妹
Jyutpinggaa3 fe1 mui6
Yalega fē muih
Definition
A slang term for a female traffic warden, named after their brown uniforms.
slangpeopletransport
How it's used
This term is a classic example of Hong Kong street slang derived from the visual appearance of uniforms. The brown color of the traffic warden uniform is humorously compared to the color of coffee, leading to this nickname. It is widely understood by locals but carries a slightly informal or teasing tone.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
There is a traffic warden writing a ticket up ahead.
You have been parked there for so long, watch out for the traffic warden.
Related words
Common phrases
a traffic warden issuing a parking ticket
Common mistake
Avoid using this term in formal settings or directly addressing a traffic warden as such, as it can be perceived as disrespectful or mocking. It is best used when talking to friends or family about the presence of wardens in the area.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
