nai4 seoi2 lou2泥水佬
Jyutpingnai4 seoi2 lou2
Yalenàih séui lóu
Definition
Bricklayer, plasterer, or mason; a construction worker specializing in bricklaying, tiling, or plastering.
colloquialworkpeople
How it's used
Refers specifically to workers who handle masonry, tiling, and plastering rather than general construction labor. The suffix 佬 carries a colloquial, slightly rough-and-ready connotation common in trade-related occupations. It is not considered derogatory, but it is informal and should be avoided in professional or written contexts.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
I found a construction worker to help with the home renovation.
Related words
Common phrases
to hire a construction worker
construction worker at work
Common mistake
Do not use this term for general construction workers or site laborers who do not specialize in masonry or tiling. Using it for any random worker on a site can sound inaccurate or dismissive.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
