sei2 zai2死仔
Jyutpingsei2 zai2
Yaleséi jái
Definition
A term of address for a naughty boy, or a playful, affectionate way to address a close male friend.
- naughty boy; spoilt brat; brat
- buddy; mate; used between close male friends to show playful affection
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
Carries a dual nature depending on the relationship between speakers. When used with children, it functions as a scolding for misbehavior, but when used between close male friends, it shifts into a term of endearment that signals high levels of intimacy and informality.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
You brat, why haven't you reached out to me for so long?
That little brat is making trouble again, he really drives me crazy.
Related words
Common phrases
little brat
Common mistake
Avoid using this with people you do not know well or in formal settings, as it can be perceived as highly offensive or aggressive if the recipient does not share a close bond with you.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
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.
