ji6 naai1二奶
Jyutpingji6 naai1
Yaleyih nāai
Definition
A kept mistress, especially the first one kept by a married man.
colloquialpeoplefamily
How it's used
Carries a strong derogatory and judgmental tone, reflecting societal disapproval of extramarital affairs. While it literally translates to second wife, it is never used in a legal or respectful context. The term is deeply associated with the practice of men from Hong Kong maintaining secret households across the border in mainland China.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
It turns out her husband is keeping a mistress.
I heard she is someone's mistress, she really has no shame.
Related words
Common phrases
to keep a mistress
Common mistake
Avoid using this term to refer to a second wife in a legal or historical polygamous marriage, as it specifically implies an illicit, hidden relationship rather than a recognized status.
Grammar color guide
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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.
