tou2 wong4 dai3土皇帝
Jyutpingtou2 wong4 dai3
Yaletóu wòhng dai
Definition
A local despot or tyrant who dominates a specific area.
colloquialpeople
How it's used
Describes someone who acts as an absolute ruler within a small, specific domain like a workplace, a neighborhood, or a social circle. It carries a strong sense of resentment toward someone who abuses their power without any formal authority to back it up. Unlike a formal boss, this person is seen as someone who has overstepped their boundaries to dominate others.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He has been at the company for so long, he is basically a local tyrant.
Who here dares to resist? He is the local despot, after all.
Related words
Common phrases
just like a local tyrant
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe an actual government official or a legitimate leader, as the term specifically implies an illegitimate or self-appointed power dynamic.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
