pui3 ngau5配偶
Jyutpingpui3 ngau5
Yalepui ngáuh
Definition
Spouse; one's partner in a marriage.
neutralfamilypeople
How it's used
Formal and legalistic in tone, this term is rarely used in casual conversation between friends. People typically use 老公 or 老婆 to refer to their own partner, or 另一半 when speaking more generally. It is mostly encountered in official documents, application forms, or when discussing insurance and tax benefits.
Measure word
wai6位waihExamples
Will your spouse be coming today?
Related words
Common mistake
Using this word in a casual setting can make you sound like you are reading from a government document or a legal contract. It is not a term of endearment or a natural way to introduce your partner to friends.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
