zi1 sam1資深资深
Jyutpingzi1 sam1
Yalejī sām
Definition
Senior, experienced, or having a long record of service in a particular field.
neutralworkpeople
How it's used
Focuses on the depth of experience and professional standing rather than just age. It is frequently used to describe professionals like doctors, journalists, or teachers who have built a reputation over many years. While it implies seniority, it is distinct from simply being an older person.
Examples
He is the most senior employee in the company.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it to describe someone who is just old in age, as it specifically highlights professional expertise and length of service. It is not a synonym for 老人家.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
