soeng1 hou6商號商号
Jyutpingsoeng1 hou6
Yalesēung houh
Definition
A formal or polite term for a company, or a trade name.
- a formal or polite term for a company
- a firm's trade name or business name
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How it's used
Refers to a business entity or its trade name in a slightly formal or traditional tone. While perfectly understandable in Hong Kong, it is rarely used in casual daily speech, where people prefer using 公司 or 舖頭. It often appears in legal documents, official signage, or when describing long-standing, traditional businesses.
Measure word
gaan1間gānExamples
This company has been in business for many years.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common everyday term, but using it in casual conversation can sound overly formal or slightly archaic. Stick to 公司 for general business contexts.
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.



