wong4 dai3皇帝
Jyutpingwong4 dai3
Yalewòhng dai
Definition
An emperor; the head of state of an empire.
neutralpeople
How it's used
Beyond the historical title, this term is frequently used metaphorically to describe someone who is spoiled, demanding, or acts as if they are the center of the universe. It often carries a sarcastic tone when applied to a friend or family member who expects special treatment. In a workplace context, it can describe a boss who is autocratic and refuses to listen to subordinates.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He acts like he's an emperor, wanting everyone to serve him.
The emperors in the past were really majestic.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the term 皇上, which is the formal way to address an emperor directly in historical dramas. Using 皇帝 as a direct address to someone is grammatically incorrect and would sound bizarre.
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.
