ngau4 gei3牛記牛记
Jyutpingngau4 gei3
Yalengàuh gei
Definition
Jeans; denim pants.
colloquialfoodslang
How it's used
Originally referring to simple, unpretentious eateries, this term has evolved to describe any place or service that prioritizes function over comfort or style. It carries a sense of nostalgia for old-school Hong Kong where quality was judged by taste rather than decor. You will often hear it used to describe small, family-run shops that have been around for decades.
Measure word
gaan1間gānExamples
The food at this no-frills cha chaan teng is great value.
nei5你sai2使mat1乜heoi3去gam3咁gwai3貴ge3嘅dei6地fong1方，kau4求kei4其wan2搵gaan1間ngau4牛gei3記sik6食mai1咪dak1得lo1囉。
Why do you need to go somewhere so expensive? Just find a no-frills place to eat.
Related words
Common phrases
no-frills cha chaan teng
just find any no-frills place
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal meaning of beef-related shops. While it often describes eateries, it is a slang descriptor for the style of the establishment rather than a formal name for a type of restaurant.
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.
