saam1 nap1 sing1三粒星
Jyutpingsaam1 nap1 sing1
Yalesāam nāp sīng
Definition
Hong Kong permanent resident; an informal term derived from the three asterisks on the Hong Kong identity card.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Refers specifically to the three asterisks printed on a Hong Kong permanent identity card. It is a common shorthand used in casual conversation to discuss residency status or eligibility for government benefits. People often use it as a milestone for when they finally feel like a true local.
Examples
After he got his permanent resident status, he went to apply for a passport immediately.
Related words
Common phrases
to obtain permanent residency
to meet the requirement for permanent residency
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with military or police ranks. While it literally translates to three stars, in the context of Hong Kong life, it almost always refers to residency status rather than a promotion or a rating.
Grammar color guide
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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.
