zi1 haak3知客
Jyutpingzi1 haak3
Yalejī haak
Definition
A receptionist, typically at a restaurant, or a monastery reception monk; also a euphemism for a prostitute.
- receptionist, usually at a restaurant or entertainment venue
- monk in charge of reception at a monastery
- literaryprostitute
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
Originally referring to a monk responsible for receiving guests at a temple, the term has evolved to describe front of house staff in restaurants who manage seating. Using it to refer to a sex worker is now considered dated or derogatory, and it is rarely used in that sense in modern daily conversation. In a restaurant context, it is the standard term for the person standing at the entrance with the reservation list.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
The receptionist at this restaurant has a terrible attitude.
Could you ask the receptionist if there are any tables available for me?
Related words
Common phrases
restaurant receptionist
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the general term for a guest, which is 客人. Using 知客 to refer to a regular customer would be incorrect as it specifically denotes the role of the person providing the service.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
