taai3 zi2

Jyutpingtaai3 zi2
Yaletai jí

Definition

Crown prince

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How it's used

Refers specifically to the designated successor to the throne, distinguishing it from the general term for any son of a king. While it carries a historical and royal weight, it is frequently used in modern Hong Kong to jokingly refer to the son of a wealthy business owner who is expected to inherit the family company.

Measure word

go3go

Examples

gu2 doi6 ge3 taai3 zi2 hai6 dim2 joeng2 gaan2 ceot1 lai4 gaa4
古代嘅太子係點樣揀出嚟㗎?
How was the crown prince chosen in ancient times?
keoi5 san1 wai4 taai3 zi2 aat3 lik6 jat1 ding6 hou2 daai6
佢身為太子,壓力一定好大。
As the crown prince, he must be under a lot of pressure.

Common phrases

laap6 taai3 zi2
立太子
to designate a crown prince
taai3 zi2 je2
太子爺
the young master of a family business

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with the Prince Edward area in Hong Kong, which shares the same name but refers to a specific geographic location.

Tone guide

T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level