saam1 hong4 lou2三行佬

Jyutpingsaam1 hong4 lou2

Yalesāam hòhng lóu

Definition

Construction worker, renovation worker, carpenter, painter, or bricklayer.

colloquialworkpeople

How it's used

Refers collectively to the three traditional trades of carpentry, masonry, and painting, though it is now used as a general term for any skilled construction or renovation worker. The suffix 佬 adds a colloquial, slightly rough-and-ready feel, implying someone who works with their hands on site. It is not considered professional terminology in formal contracts but is the standard way to refer to these workers in casual conversation.

Measure word

go3個go

Examples

uk1屋kei2企zong1裝sau1修wan2搵zo2咗go3個saam1三hong4行lou2佬bong1幫sau2手。

I found a construction worker to help with the home renovation.

go2嗰go3個saam1三hong4行lou2佬zou6做je5嘢hou2好faai3快sau2手㗎。

That construction worker works very quickly.

Common phrases

wan2搵saam1三hong4行lou2佬

to hire a construction worker

zou6做saam1三hong2行

to work in the construction or renovation trade

Common mistake

Avoid using this term in a formal business setting or when speaking directly to a professional contractor, as the suffix 佬 can sound dismissive or overly informal depending on the tone.