bou1 nung1 zuk1煲燶粥煲㶶粥
Definition
To burn congee, making it inedible; also used figuratively to describe talking on the phone for too long, or failing despite effort.
- to burn congee, making it inedible
- slangto talk on the phone for a very long time
- figurativeto fail in an endeavor despite putting in a lot of effort
How it's used
This expression originates from the literal disaster of burning a pot of congee, which is notoriously difficult to clean and ruins the meal. In modern usage, it specifically targets the act of talking on the phone for an excessive amount of time, often implying that the speaker is neglecting other responsibilities. It carries a slightly humorous or teasing tone when used to call out someone who has been on a call for too long.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply cooking congee. The phrase is almost exclusively used metaphorically for long phone calls or, less commonly, to describe a situation that has gone completely wrong due to neglect.
Grammar color guide
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.
