saam1 waak6三劃三画
Jyutpingsaam1 waak6
Yalesāam waahk
Definition
A police sergeant, nicknamed for the three chevrons on their insignia.
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
This term is a classic example of Hong Kong police slang derived from visual cues. While the official rank is 警長, the nickname focuses on the chevron insignia worn on the uniform. It is common to hear it used interchangeably with 三條柴, which carries the same meaning.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
That sergeant is very fierce, he always scolds people.
Remember to salute when you see a sergeant.
Related words
Common phrases
promoted to sergeant
Common mistake
Do not use this term in a formal or professional setting, as it is strictly colloquial slang. Using it directly to a police officer's face could be considered disrespectful or provocative.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
