寶貝
bou2 bui3
The Cantonese word for darling is 寶貝 (bou2 bui3).
寶貝 is used as an affectionate term of address for someone very dear to you. While it can mean 'darling', it is very commonly used to refer to a 'baby' or a small child.
Meaning: often used as an affectionate term of address: person who is very dear to one (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term 寶貝 literally means 'treasure' or 'precious object'.
Which one should you use?
While 寶貝 is used for 'darling' or 'baby', 親愛的 is a more formal or literary way to say 'dear' or 'beloved'.
How do you pronounce it?
bou2 bui3
Did you know?
- The term 寶貝 can describe a physical antique or a rare collectible, meaning you can call both your child and a Ming vase the same word.
- Cantonese speakers sometimes use 寶貝 ironically or sarcastically when speaking to a friend who has made a silly mistake, similar to saying 'honey' in a condescending tone.
- In traditional settings, older generations in Cantonese culture rarely used terms like 寶貝 for their spouses, preferring to avoid such overt displays of affection in public.
Examples in context
- 佢係我嘅寶貝。keoi5 hai6 ngo5 ge3 bou2 bui3.She is my darling.
- 你係我最愛嘅寶貝。nei5 hai6 ngo5 zeoi3 oi3 ge3 bou2 bui3.You are my most beloved darling.
Example conversation
A couple is deciding what movie to watch.
- 志強 Chi Keung寶貝，你想睇邊套戲？bou2 bei3, nei5 soeng2 tai2 bin1 tau3 hei3?Darling, which movie do you want to watch?
- 雅婷 Nga Ting我想睇嗰套浪漫電影。ngo5 soeng2 tai2 go2 tau3 mong6 maan6 din6 jing2.I want to watch that romantic movie.
- 志強 Chi Keung沒問題，聽你話。mut6 man4 gai2, ting1 nei5 waa6.No problem, it's up to you.
- 雅婷 Nga Ting你真係好貼心！nei5 zan1 hai6 hou2 tip3 sam1!You are really thoughtful!
