san1 zai2新仔

Jyutpingsan1 zai2

Yalesān jái

名詞Uncommon

Definition

A novice, rookie, or new recruit; can also refer to a new boyfriend.

a novice, greenhorn, rookie, or new recruit in a profession
slanga new boyfriend

colloquialpeoplework

How it's used

Carries a slightly informal and sometimes condescending tone, as it highlights the person's lack of experience. It is frequently used in workplace settings to refer to junior staff or interns who are still learning the ropes. While it can be used neutrally, it often implies that the person is still prone to making rookie mistakes.

Measure word

go3個go

Examples

gung1公si1司gam1今jat6日ceng2請zo2咗go3個san1新zai2仔faan1返gung1工。

The company hired a new recruit today.

nei5你dou1都hai6係san1新zai2仔，m4唔hou2好gam3咁daai6大aat3壓lik6力aa4呀。

You are a newbie too, don't put so much pressure on yourself.

Common phrases

ceng2請san1新zai2仔

to hire a new recruit

daai3帶san1新zai2仔

to mentor a new recruit

Common mistake

Avoid using this term in front of a supervisor or in a formal business meeting, as it can sound dismissive or unprofessional. It is best reserved for casual conversations among colleagues.