taai3 je4太爺太爷
Jyutpingtaai3 je4
Yaletaai yèh
Definition
Great-grandfather; the father of one's paternal grandfather.
colloquialfamilypeople
How it's used
Refers specifically to the paternal great-grandfather in a traditional family hierarchy. It carries a sense of respect and distance, as this generation is often seen as the patriarch of the extended family lineage. In some contexts, it can also be used as a respectful term of address for an elderly man, though this is less common than using 伯伯 or 公公.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
My great-grandfather is over ninety this year and still very healthy.
Did your great-grandfather live in this village before?
Related words
Common phrases
great-grandfather (affectionate or formal)
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 爺爺, which refers to the paternal grandfather. Using the wrong term can cause confusion in family discussions, as the generational gap is significant.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
