si1 fu2師父师父
Jyutpingsi1 fu2
Yalesī fú
Definition
Respectful address for one's teacher, master, a skilled artisan, tradesman, or monk.
- one's teacher or master, typically after a formal apprenticeship
- a skilled artisan, technician, or tradesman
- a respectful form of address for a Buddhist monk or nun
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
While 師父 is specifically used for a master who has accepted you as a formal apprentice, 師傅 is the more common term used to address skilled workers like taxi drivers, mechanics, or chefs. Using 師父 for a casual service worker can sound overly dramatic or imply a deep, master-disciple relationship that does not exist. In a religious context, 師父 is the standard respectful way to address Buddhist monks or nuns.
Measure word
wai6位waihExamples
Master, I would like to ask you how to perform this movement?
Related words
Common phrases
to become an apprentice
Common mistake
Do not confuse 師父 with 師傅 in casual daily interactions. Calling a taxi driver 師父 implies you are his apprentice, which is incorrect; 師傅 is the appropriate term for tradespeople.
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.
