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Sifu

2 stages from Cantonese to English.

Today it means a title of respect for a skilled teacher, especially in Chinese martial arts

Where does the word "sifu" come from? It comes from Cantonese sīfú, adopted directly into English (1970s).

1
Stage 1 of 2
sīfú
Cantonese · ancient
"a martial-arts master or teacher"
meaning 'master' or 'skilled teacher', a respectful title for an instructor
2
Stage 2 of 2
sifu
English · 1970s
"a martial-arts teacher, especially in Chinese styles"
spread into English through kung fu films and martial-arts schools
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