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16 Essential Key Words & Phrases To Use in Hong Kong

Although English is widely understood and is technically a second official language in Hong Kong, it's always fun and appreciated to throw in some Cantonese and it will definitely open doors to a better time. Cantonese, as opposed to Mandarin, is more widely spoken in Hong Kong but most locals understand both.

Here are some key words and phrases to know. The answers are all phonetic, but beware that Cantonese has NINE tones you might accidentally be swearing at someone and not even know it. (Good night - 'Jo tao' said aggressively and higher up means 'piss off', for example!


Please

Um goi


Thank you (formal - someone has given you a gift)

Dord zher


Thank you (Informal - after paying for a service)

Um goi


Hello

Lay ho or simply hello


Top Tip: The market stalls of Temple Street, Ladies Market, Stankey Market etc only take cash.


Goodbye

Byebye


Good morning - this is said right up until midday

Jo sun


Good night - said when you're off to bed

Jo tao


You walk into a restaurant and want a table for 5 people

Uum wai, um goi


2 beers, please

Lerng gor bairdzao, um goi


3 cokes and 1 lemon tea please

Sam gor holot, ger yat gor dong-leng-taa, um goi


1 glass of water - beware that water in Hong Kong is nearly always served hot.

Yat boi soou, um goi


How much is it?

Gher dor teen?


Can I have 4 forks, please?

Nor yiohl, say-zee-taa, um goi?


Chicken (meat)

Gai yot


Beef (meat)

Gnough yot



Vegetable

Choi


Top tip - All 7/11s and Circle Ks have free WiFi - you just need to stand close to them.


You're now ready to hit the streets! Good luck.







1件のコメント


tekex11800
2024年10月08日

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