gaau1 bou2 wu6 fai3交保護費交保护费
Jyutpinggaau1 bou2 wu6 fai3
Yalegāau bóu wuh fai
Definition
To pay protection money or fees, especially to triads or gangs.
colloquialmoneypeople
How it's used
Refers specifically to the extortion money demanded by criminal gangs or triads from local businesses. It carries a strong negative connotation and is often associated with old school Hong Kong crime films. Using this phrase in casual conversation usually implies a situation where someone is being bullied or exploited for money.
Examples
They have to pay protection fees to run their shop.
Who dares to ask you to pay protection fees?
Related words
Common phrases
forced to pay protection fees
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with legitimate business fees or taxes, as it implies criminal activity and coercion. It is not a formal term used in legal or professional contexts.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
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.
