gau3 fo2 lou2救火佬
Jyutpinggau3 fo2 lou2
Yalegau fó lóu
Definition
A colloquial term for a firefighter.
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
Using 佬 at the end of a noun often carries a casual or slightly rough tone, making this term sound like something you would say among friends rather than in a formal setting. While it is not necessarily offensive, it lacks the professional respect implied by the standard term 消防員. It is best reserved for informal conversation about someone's occupation.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
That fireman is very muscular.
Do you want to be a fireman when you grow up?
Related words
Common phrases
to work as a fireman
Common mistake
Avoid using this term in front of a fireman or in a professional context, as it can sound dismissive or disrespectful compared to the formal title 消防員.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
