siu3 je4少爺少爷
Jyutpingsiu3 je4
Yalesiu yèh
Definition
A respectful address for a young master, or a pampered young man.
- datedrespectful term of address used by a servant for their young master
- figurativepampered or spoiled young man
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Originally a respectful term used by servants for the son of a wealthy family, this word has evolved into a sarcastic label for a man who is spoiled, lazy, or expects others to serve him. It carries a strong connotation of entitlement and lack of independence. When used in a modern context, it is almost always meant to mock someone for acting like they are above doing basic chores or manual labor.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Do you think you are some kind of pampered prince? Wash the dishes yourself.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this word to address a young man in a polite or neutral way, as it will sound condescending or insulting. It is strictly for criticizing someone's behavior or referring to a wealthy, sheltered individual.
Grammar color guide
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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.
