kei4 jing1耆英
Jyutpingkei4 jing1
Yalekèih yīng
Definition
An elegant, respectful term for the elderly.
neutralpeople
How it's used
Carries a formal and respectful tone, often appearing in official government documents, social service program names, or news reports. It is rarely used in casual, face-to-face conversation to address someone directly, as it sounds overly polite or bureaucratic. Using it in everyday speech might make you sound like you are reading from a press release.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
This community center has many elderly people participating in activities.
The government should care more about the elderly in the community.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this term to address an elderly person directly in a casual setting, as it sounds stiff and unnatural. Stick to more common terms like 老人家 or 長者 for daily interaction.
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.
