zaap6 caai1雜差杂差
Jyutpingzaap6 caai1
Yalejaahp chāai
Definition
Plainclothes police officer; detective.
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
Historically, this term specifically referred to plainclothes officers or detectives, distinguishing them from uniformed police. While it is still widely understood, it carries a slightly old-fashioned or street-level nuance compared to the more neutral term 差佬. Using it today can sound a bit like you are describing a character from a classic Hong Kong crime film.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
That detective is investigating a case over there.
Have you seen any plainclothes police patrolling yet?
Related words
Common phrases
detective office or police station
Common mistake
Avoid using this term in formal or professional settings, as it can sound disrespectful or overly informal. It is best reserved for casual conversation among friends when discussing police activity.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
