ze2 ze2姐姐

Jyutpingze2 ze2

Yalejé jé

Definition

(noun) general term of young lady

colloquialpeoplework

How it's used

Using this term is a polite and respectful way to address or refer to a domestic worker in a household or a cleaning staff member in a public space. It softens the hierarchy compared to more formal or clinical terms, reflecting a common social practice in Hong Kong to treat household staff as part of the extended family unit. It is almost always used with a classifier like 個 or the specific role like 清潔.

Measure word

go3個go

Examples

uk1 kei2 go3 ze1 ze1 gam1 jat6 fong3 gaa3 aa4

屋企個姐姐今日放假呀。

The domestic helper at home is off today.

nei5 ceng2 zo2 ze1 ze1 bong1 sau2 daa2 sou3 mei6 aa4

你請咗姐姐幫手打掃未呀？

Have you hired a helper to help with the cleaning yet?

Common phrases

cing1 git3 ze1 ze1

清潔姐姐

female janitor

ngoi6 jung4 ze1 ze1

外傭姐姐

foreign domestic helper

Common mistake

Avoid using this term to refer to a biological older sister, as it will cause confusion; use 家姐 instead for a sibling. While it is a term of endearment, ensure the tone remains professional in formal settings to avoid sounding overly familiar or patronizing.