tong1 haak3劏客
Jyutpingtong1 haak3
Yaletōng haak
Definition
To rip off or overcharge customers.
colloquialmoneyshopping
How it's used
Originating from the butchery term for slaughtering animals, this word vividly describes the act of overcharging or cheating customers. It is frequently used in contexts involving tourist traps or unscrupulous businesses that exploit unsuspecting buyers. The imagery implies that the customer is being cut up like meat for profit.
Examples
This shop specializes in ripping off customers, definitely do not go in.
Related words
Common phrases
specializing in ripping off customers
a shop that rips off customers
Common mistake
Do not use this word to describe simple bargaining or high prices that are clearly displayed. It specifically implies a malicious intent to deceive or extort someone who is unaware of the true value of the goods.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
