caau2 lau4炒樓炒楼
Jyutpingcaau2 lau4
Yalecháau làuh
Definition
To speculate in real estate by buying and quickly selling property for profit.
colloquialmoneyplaces
How it's used
The term uses the verb 炒 to describe the rapid buying and selling of assets for profit, similar to how one might stir fry food quickly over high heat. It carries a slightly negative or risky connotation, implying a focus on short term gain rather than long term investment. It is frequently used in discussions about economic bubbles or the unaffordability of housing in Hong Kong.
Examples
He made a lot of money speculating in real estate before.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with buying a property for long term residence or rental income, which is usually referred to as 買樓 or 投資. 炒樓 specifically highlights the intent to flip the property for a quick profit.
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.
