sei3 baat3 gau2四八九
Jyutpingsei3 baat3 gau2
Yalesei baat gáu
Definition
The leader or 'Dragon Head' of a triad gang.
slangpeopleslang
How it's used
This term originates from secret society jargon where numbers represent specific ranks within the hierarchy. It specifically refers to the position of the Dragon Head or the overall leader of a triad group. Using this term outside of discussions about criminal organizations or historical context is rare and carries a very specific, gritty connotation.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
I heard he is the leader of that gang.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners should be extremely careful with this term as it is deeply associated with criminal subculture and can be offensive or alarming if used in casual conversation. It is not a general word for a leader or boss in any other context.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
