sam2 sam2嬸嬸婶婶
Jyutpingsam2 sam2
Yalesám sám
Definition
Wife of father's younger brother, or a polite form of address for a middle-aged woman.
- aunt; wife of father's younger brother
- polite form of address for a middle-aged woman
colloquialfamilypeople
How it's used
Beyond the literal family relation, this term is a polite and common way to address middle-aged women in service roles, such as cleaners or canteen staff. It carries a sense of respect for their seniority while maintaining a friendly, community-oriented tone. Using it helps establish a rapport with staff in local shops or residential buildings.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
I will go visit my aunt tomorrow.
The cleaning lady helped us tidy everything up.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this term for younger women, as it implies a significant age gap and can be perceived as calling someone old. For younger women, terms like 姐姐 are more appropriate.
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.
