sai3 suk1世叔
Jyutpingsai3 suk1
Yalesai sūk
Definition
A respectful way of addressing a friend of one's father's generation.
colloquialpeoplefamily
How it's used
Using this term shows a high level of traditional respect, often implying a long-standing family friendship that spans generations. It is most commonly used by younger people when addressing their parents' close male friends. While it sounds formal and slightly old-fashioned, it is still frequently used in families that value traditional etiquette.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Uncle, how has your health been lately?
I am going to visit my father's friend tomorrow and bring him some gifts.
Related words
Common phrases
a collective term for friends of one's father
Common mistake
Do not use this term for just any older man you meet, as it specifically implies a pre-existing social connection to your father. Using it for a stranger can sound overly familiar or confusing.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
