lei6吏
Jyutpinglei6
Yaleleih
Definition
Junior official or civil servant.
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How it's used
Primarily encountered in historical contexts or formal compound words rather than as a standalone noun in modern speech. It specifically refers to lower-ranking administrative staff who handled clerical duties, distinct from higher-ranking officials known as 官. Using it to describe a modern civil servant would sound archaic or overly literary.
Examples
Junior officials in ancient times loved to be corrupt.
Do you know the difference between high-ranking officials and junior ones?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe contemporary government workers, as it carries a strong historical connotation of feudal bureaucracy. Use 公務員 instead for modern contexts.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
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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.
