lou5老
Jyutpinglou5
Yalelóuh
Definition
Old; aged.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
While referring to age, this word is often used in a friendly or informal way to describe someone who has been in a place or role for a long time. It is common to hear people refer to a long-time colleague as 老臣子 or a regular customer as 老顧客. Be aware that using it directly to describe a person's age can sound blunt or impolite depending on the context.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe inanimate objects like food or clothes, as it specifically refers to age in people or animals. For objects that have been used for a long time, use 舊 instead.
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.
