to1 jau2拖友
Jyutpingto1 jau2
Yaletō yáu
Definition
A boyfriend or girlfriend; a partner in a relationship.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This term is a classic piece of Hong Kong slang that feels slightly retro or informal compared to the more neutral 男朋友 or 女朋友. It carries a sense of casual familiarity and is often used when gossiping or talking about someone's romantic life among friends. Using it in a formal setting or when speaking to someone you do not know well can sound overly blunt or disrespectful.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 拖手 which means to hold hands. While 拖友 implies a romantic relationship, it is strictly a noun for the person, whereas 拖手 is a verb phrase describing the act of holding hands.
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.
