si2 maa1使媽使妈

Jyutpingsi2 maa1

Yalesí mā

Definition

Maid; a female domestic servant.

datedpeoplehome

How it's used

Refers specifically to domestic helpers from an older generation, often carrying a slightly dated or colonial-era connotation. Modern speakers almost exclusively use the term 工人 or the more respectful 姐姐 when referring to domestic helpers in contemporary Hong Kong. Using this term today can sound old-fashioned or even derogatory depending on the context and tone.

Measure word

go3個go

Examples

ji5以cin4前uk1屋kei2企ceng2請zo2咗go3個sai2使maa1媽bong1幫sau2手。

We hired a maid to help out at home in the past.

keoi5佢sai3細go3個go2嗰zan6陣uk1屋kei2企jau5有sai2使maa1媽ziu3照gu3顧。

She was taken care of by a maid when she was little.

Common phrases

ceng2請sai2使maa1媽

to hire a maid

Common mistake

Avoid using this term in professional or polite settings today, as it can sound condescending or insensitive. Stick to 姐姐 or 工人 to ensure you are being respectful to the person you are talking about.