aat3 bou2壓寶压宝
Jyutpingaat3 bou2
Yaleaat bóu
Definition
A type of traditional Chinese gambling game.
colloquialmoneyother
How it's used
This term refers specifically to a traditional gambling game involving betting on symbols or items placed under a cover. It is rarely used in modern contexts outside of historical descriptions or specific gambling circles. In contemporary speech, it is often used metaphorically to mean betting on a certain outcome or backing a specific person in a risky situation.
Examples
He goes to the casino to play 壓寶 all the time and has lost every penny.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin term 押寶 which is often used in political or business contexts to mean backing a candidate or a project. In Cantonese, the focus remains heavily on the literal gambling activity unless used in a clear metaphorical sense.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
