seoi2 haak3水客
Jyutpingseoi2 haak3
Yaleséui haak
Definition
Parallel traders; smugglers who bring goods across a border in small quantities to avoid import tariffs.
colloquialpeopleshopping
How it's used
Refers specifically to individuals who transport goods across the border in small quantities to avoid customs duties. The term is highly charged due to the social friction caused by the disruption of local retail supplies and public transport congestion. It is almost exclusively used in negative or critical contexts.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
There are a lot of parallel traders at the train station lately.
Are those parallel traders you see carrying milk powder?
Related words
Common phrases
to engage in parallel trading
to crack down on parallel traders
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with a regular tourist or shopper. The term implies an intent to profit through the evasion of taxes or regulations, carrying a strong connotation of social nuisance.
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.
