tou2 hou4土豪
Jyutpingtou2 hou4
Yaletóu hòuh
Definition
A local tyrant or despot; or a wealthy person who is nouveau riche, ostentatious, and lacking in taste.
- literarylocal tyrant; local despot
- slangnouveau riche; a wealthy person with vulgar or ostentatious taste
colloquialpeoplemoney
How it's used
Originally referring to landed gentry or local tyrants in rural areas, the term shifted in the digital age to mock people who flaunt their wealth with poor aesthetic taste. It carries a strong sense of irony and social judgment, implying that while the person has money, they lack refinement or class. It is frequently used in the context of consumer goods, such as describing flashy gold-colored electronics.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He is wearing designer brands from head to toe, he really looks like a nouveau riche.
Besides having money, what is so special about these nouveau riche people?
Related words
Common phrases
champagne gold (referring to the flashy color)
local tyrants and evil gentry
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with a genuine compliment about someone being wealthy. Using this word to describe a rich person is almost always derogatory and suggests they are tacky or uncultured.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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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.
