m4 sai2 haak3 hei3唔使客氣唔使客气
Jyutpingm4 sai2 haak3 hei3
Yalem̀h sái haak hei
Definition
You are welcome; a polite response to someone expressing gratitude or offering hospitality.
- you are welcome; not at all
- a polite refusal of an offer or invitation; please do not bother
colloquialcommunicationpeople
How it's used
This phrase is the standard, polite response to someone expressing gratitude. While it literally translates to do not be polite, it functions exactly like you are welcome in English. It can also be used to decline an offer or invitation, signaling that the other person does not need to go to any extra trouble.
Examples
You're welcome, we're friends, it's only right to help.
Related words
Common phrases
No need to be so polite
Common mistake
Avoid using this to mean you are welcome in a formal setting if you want to sound more professional, as it is quite casual. In very formal business contexts, people might prefer to say 唔使多謝 or simply acknowledge the thanks with a nod.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
