bong6 seoi2傍水
Jyutpingbong6 seoi2
Yalebohng séui
Definition
To pay money, especially under duress or as a bribe.
colloquialmoney
How it's used
Originating from Cantonese underworld slang, this term carries a slightly informal or reluctant tone when referring to the act of handing over money. It is frequently used when someone is forced to pay for something they would rather avoid or when settling a debt that has been delayed. The imagery implies a sense of 'bleeding' money or being drained of funds.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
to pay someone
Common mistake
Do not use this in formal business contexts or when discussing professional payments, as it sounds too casual and potentially disrespectful. It is strictly for peer to peer interactions or complaining about expenses.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
