sin1 haau2先考
Jyutpingsin1 haau2
Yalesīn háau
Definition
Deceased father
neutralfamilypeople
How it's used
Refers specifically to one's own deceased father in a respectful and formal manner. It is commonly used in written contexts or when speaking about family history with a sense of reverence. Unlike the casual term 老豆, this word carries a weight of filial piety and is rarely used in lighthearted conversation.
Examples
I was still very young when my father passed away.
Related words
Common phrases
My late father (very formal/respectful)
Common mistake
Avoid using this term to refer to someone else's deceased father, as it is strictly used for one's own parent. Using it for others can sound confusing or inappropriate; instead, use terms like 先父 or 佢爸爸.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.



