bou1 hei2煲起
Jyutpingbou1 hei2
Yalebōu héi
Definition
To completely destroy, ruin, or finish off.
slangtechnologyslang
How it's used
Originally referring to the act of boiling something until it is ruined, this term has evolved into a common slang for hardware or electronics that have suffered a catastrophic, often terminal, failure. It carries a sense of finality, implying the device is beyond repair and effectively dead. It is most frequently used when a machine overheats or suffers a severe electrical fault.
Examples
He completely destroyed the computer, it is so frustrating.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal meaning of boiling soup, which is also 煲. When used as slang, it specifically describes the state of being broken or burnt out, not the process of cooking.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
