gung1 coeng1公娼
Jyutpinggung1 coeng1
Yalegūng chēung
Definition
Licensed or legal prostitutes.
neutralpeopleother
How it's used
This term refers specifically to a historical or legal category of sex workers who operated under government regulation. It carries a formal or historical tone rather than being a common term for modern sex work. It is rarely used in casual conversation to describe contemporary situations.
Examples
Did those licensed prostitutes back then need to have a license?
The government once allowed licensed prostitution to operate legally.
Related words
Common phrases
licensed prostitution system
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe modern sex workers, as it sounds archaic and implies a specific legal status from a different era. Use more neutral or descriptive terms when discussing current social issues.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
