長者
coeng4 ze2
The English phrase 'elderly' is translated into Cantonese as 長者 (coeng4 ze2).
The term 長者 refers to 'elderly' and is used when showing respect towards older people.
Meaning: old (adj)
Which one should you use?
The phrase 年長者 highlights the age of the person, indicating they are advanced in years. The term 老人 translates to 'elderly person' and is used in everyday conversations.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Hong Kong, the term 長者 is most commonly used.
How do you pronounce it?
coeng4 ze2
Did you know?
- Cantonese speakers often avoid using any word for 'old' when speaking directly to an elder, instead using titles like 'Grandmother' or 'Grandfather' even for strangers.
- The character 長 in 長者 literally means 'long' or 'tall', suggesting that respect is tied to one's longevity or stature in life.
- While 老人 means 'old person', using it to address someone directly can be perceived as blunt or even slightly rude, as it focuses solely on the physical state of aging.
Examples in context
- 呢度有長者專用位。nei1 dou6 jau5 zoeng2 ze2 zyun1 jung6 wai2.There are seats reserved for the elderly here.
- 佢對長者好有禮貌。keoi5 deoi3 zoeng2 ze2 hou2 jau5 lai5 maa0.He is very polite to the elderly.
Example conversation
In a public park, a young man helps an elderly woman.
- 雅婷 Nga Ting子健，你幫緊嗰位長者呀？zi2 gin3, nei5 bong1 gan2 go2 wai2 zoeng2 ze2 aa3?Zi Kin, are you helping that elderly woman?
- 子健 Tsz Kin係呀，佢行得好慢。hai6 aa3, keoi5 haang4 dak1 hou2 maan6.Yes, she walks very slowly.
- 雅婷 Nga Ting你真係好有心。nei5 zan1 hai6 hou2 jau5 sam1.You are very thoughtful.
- 子健 Tsz Kin應該要尊重長者先至係啱。jing1 goi1 jiu3 zyun1 zung3 zoeng2 ze2 sin1 zi3 hai6 ngaam1.It's only right to respect the elderly.
