lou5 mak2老麥老麦
Jyutpinglou5 mak2
Yalelóuh mák
Definition
McDonald's fast food restaurant
colloquialfoodplaces
How it's used
Using this nickname is extremely common among all age groups in Hong Kong, to the point where it is often used even in semi-formal settings among friends. It carries a casual, slightly playful tone that reflects the ubiquity of the chain in local life. You will rarely hear people refer to the restaurant by its full name in casual conversation.
Measure word
gaan1間gānExamples
gam1 maan5 ngo5 dei6 heoi3 sik6 lou5 mak2 hou2 m4 hou2 aa4
今晚我哋去食老麥好唔好呀？
Shall we go eat at McDonald's tonight?
nei5 jau6 sik6 lou5 mak2 m4 geng1 fei4 me1
你又食老麥，唔驚肥咩？
You're eating at McDonald's again, aren't you afraid of getting fat?
Related words
Common phrases
sik6 lou5 mak2
食老麥
eat at McDonald's
heoi3 lou5 mak2
去老麥
go to McDonald's
Common mistake
Do not use this term in formal written reports or professional business communication, as it remains a colloquial nickname rather than the official brand name.
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
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.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- 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.
