leng3 zai2靚仔靓仔
Jyutpingleng3 zai2
Yaleleng jái
Definition
A handsome or good-looking young man, or used informally as a friendly form of address for an adult male.
- a handsome or good-looking young man
- slanga friendly, informal form of address for any adult male
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Beyond describing physical appearance, this term functions as a generic, friendly way to address a young man, similar to calling someone "buddy" or "young man" in English. It is frequently used by staff in restaurants or shops to get the attention of a male customer regardless of whether he is actually "good-looking." Using it can sound patronizing if directed at someone significantly older or in a formal professional setting.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Who is that handsome guy to you?
He was really handsome when he was young.
Related words
Common phrases
very handsome
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the term 靚女, which is used for females. Also, be aware that using it to address a stranger who is clearly older than you can be perceived as rude or condescending rather than polite.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
