kai3 je4契爺契爷
Jyutpingkai3 je4
Yalekai yèh
Definition
Godfather; a nominal father through a ritual adoption ceremony.
colloquialfamilypeople
How it's used
Establishing a bond through 上契 is a traditional ritual that creates a formal, quasi-familial relationship between a child and an adult who is not their biological parent. While it implies a protective and supportive role, the term is sometimes used ironically or sarcastically in modern slang to imply a patronizing or overly indulgent relationship between a powerful older man and a younger person.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He has a very close relationship with his godfather.
Related words
Common phrases
to perform the ritual of becoming a godchild
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 乾爹, which is a Mandarin term that often carries a strong negative connotation of a transactional or illicit romantic relationship, whereas 契爺 in Cantonese is primarily understood as a traditional, respectful, or familial title.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
