ceoi1 bo1 gei1吹波機吹波机
Jyutpingceoi1 bo1 gei1
Yalechēui bō gēi
Definition
Breathalyzer; a device used by police to test blood alcohol content from a breath sample.
colloquialtransportdaily actions
How it's used
The term literally translates to "blowing bubble machine," which reflects the physical action of blowing into the device. It is the standard colloquial way to refer to a breathalyzer in Hong Kong, as the formal term is rarely used in casual conversation. It is almost exclusively used in the context of police traffic stops.
Measure word
bou6部bouhExamples
He drank alcohol and was tested by the police with a breathalyzer.
Related words
Common phrases
breathalyzer test
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with blowing bubbles for fun, as the context of police or drinking is always implied when using this specific term.
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.
