caa4 bou1茶煲
Jyutpingcaa4 bou1
Yalechàh bōu
Definition
Trouble or troublesome, derived from the English homophone "trouble".
colloquialdescriptionsother
How it's used
Originating from the phonetic similarity to the English word "trouble," this term is a classic example of Cantonese linguistic playfulness. It functions primarily as an adjective to describe people or situations that are difficult to deal with or prone to causing complications. While widely understood, it carries a slightly informal and sometimes impatient tone.
Examples
Why are you such a troublesome person?
This matter is very troublesome, it's really bothering me.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal meaning of a tea pot, which is also written as 茶煲 in some contexts. The context of the sentence will usually clarify whether someone is referring to a kitchen utensil or a difficult situation.
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.
