bou2 seoi2補水补水
Jyutpingbou2 seoi2
Yalebóu séui
Definition
Overtime pay, or to make an additional payment.
- overtime pay; compensation for working overtime hours
- to pay an additional charge or make up a difference in price
colloquialworkmoney
How it's used
Originally referring to hydration, this term has been adopted into workplace jargon to specifically mean monetary compensation for overtime. It carries a slightly informal tone, often used by employees when complaining about or discussing their employment terms. It is rarely used in formal contracts or official company announcements.
Examples
I have to work overtime tonight, I wonder if the company pays for it?
He always has to work overtime for free, there is no compensation at all.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal meaning of drinking water to stay hydrated, which is also called 補水 in a health or sports context. Context is essential to distinguish between getting paid for extra work and drinking water after exercise.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
