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.
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