kei4 suk1耆宿
Jyutpingkei4 suk1
Yalekèih sūk
Definition
Venerated elder; a highly respected old person of outstanding character and achievements.
writtenpeople
How it's used
Reserved almost exclusively for formal writing or respectful public discourse, this term carries a sense of historical weight and social standing. It is rarely used in casual conversation to describe a regular elderly person, as it implies the individual is a pillar of the community or a recognized authority in their field. Using it for a random senior citizen would sound overly dramatic or ironic.
Measure word
wai6位waihExamples
This venerated elder is highly respected in the community.
Do you know which venerated elder will attend the banquet tonight?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to refer to your own grandparents or elderly relatives in daily life, as it sounds like you are reading from a formal biography or a newspaper obituary.
Grammar color guide
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Adjective
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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.
