gwong1 gwan3 lou2光棍佬
Jyutpinggwong1 gwan3 lou2
Yalegwōng gwan lóu
Definition
A fraudster, trickster, or con artist.
colloquialpeople
How it's used
Originally referring to a bachelor or a man without family ties, the term evolved to describe someone who uses their lack of attachments to manipulate or swindle others. It carries a strong sense of moral condemnation and suggests a person who is untrustworthy and cunning. While it can still occasionally refer to a single man in a neutral sense, the negative connotation of a swindler is now the most common usage.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
That con-artist cheated many people out of their money.
Be careful, don't let the trickster fool you!
Related words
Common phrases
a con-artist cheating people
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the term 單身漢, which is the neutral way to describe a bachelor. Using 光棍佬 to describe a single friend can be highly offensive as it implies they are a scammer or a shady character.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
