but6 fo2撥火拨火
Jyutpingbut6 fo2
Yalebuht fó
Definition
To poke a fire; figuratively, to instigate, stir up trouble, or fan the flames of a conflict.
- to poke or stoke a fire
- figurativeto instigate, stir up trouble, or fan the flames
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
Literally meaning to fan a fire, this term is used metaphorically to describe someone who intentionally worsens a conflict or escalates an argument. It carries a negative connotation of being a troublemaker who enjoys seeing others clash. You will often hear it used with the particle 喺度 to indicate the ongoing action of instigating.
Examples
Stop stirring things up here, you're causing them to fight.
They were fine to begin with; someone was stirring the pot behind their backs.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 煽風點火, which is a more formal idiom. 撥火 is strictly colloquial and used in everyday speech to describe someone actively making a situation more volatile.
Grammar color guide
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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.
