maa4 faan4 nei5麻煩你麻烦你
Jyutpingmaa4 faan4 nei5
Yalemàh fàahn néih
Definition
Excuse me; please; sorry to trouble you.
colloquialcommunicationpeople
How it's used
Functions as a polite opener for requests or when seeking attention from strangers in public spaces. It carries a slightly more formal or respectful weight than just saying please, often used to soften the imposition of asking for a favor. It is essential for navigating social interactions in Hong Kong without sounding overly direct or demanding.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Thank you for the trouble
I really appreciate your help
Common mistake
Avoid using this as a direct translation of sorry when you have made a mistake, as it specifically functions to request a service or attention rather than to apologize for an action.
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.
