go1 go1 zai2哥哥仔
Jyutpinggo1 go1 zai2
Yalegō gō jái
Definition
A friendly or informal term of address for a young man, or a male sex worker.
- a friendly or informal term of address for a young man
- slanga male prostitute; a gigolo
colloquialpeople
How it's used
Adding the diminutive suffix 仔 to 哥哥 softens the tone, turning a standard term for an older brother into a friendly, slightly informal way to address a young man you do not know. It is commonly used by service staff or older people to sound polite yet approachable. Be aware that in specific contexts, it can carry a connotation of a male worker in the adult entertainment industry, so context is key.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Hey young man, could you please help me carry this bag?
Related words
Common phrases
young fella
Common mistake
Do not use this to address someone who is clearly much older than you, as it might sound patronizing or sarcastic. It is strictly reserved for young men who appear to be around your age or younger.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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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.
