taai3 soeng6 wong4太上皇
Jyutpingtaai3 soeng6 wong4
Yaletaai seuhng wòhng
Definition
Retired emperor; a living former emperor.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Beyond the historical meaning, this term is frequently used metaphorically to describe a retired person who still exerts significant influence over their former workplace or family. It carries a slightly sarcastic or critical tone when applied to someone who refuses to let go of power. Using it implies that the person is technically retired but effectively still in charge.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
His father abdicated and became the retired emperor.
Related words
Common phrases
to act like a retired emperor
Common mistake
Do not use this to refer to a regular retired person, as it specifically implies the retention of authority or power. It is reserved for those who step down from a leadership position but continue to interfere with the successor's decisions.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
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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.
