ceoi1 m4 zoeng3吹唔脹吹唔胀
Jyutpingceoi1 m4 zoeng3
Yalechēui m̀h jeung
Definition
Helpless or powerless in a situation, unable to do anything about something or someone.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
Originating from the idea of trying to inflate something that simply will not expand, this phrase captures a specific sense of exasperation where one's efforts are completely ineffective. It is commonly used when dealing with someone's stubborn behavior or a situation that is beyond one's control. The structure allows for an object to be inserted, such as 吹佢唔脹, which emphasizes the specific person or thing causing the frustration.
Examples
He is always late, and there is nothing I can do about it.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not mistake this for a literal description of blowing air; it is strictly an idiomatic expression for powerlessness. Using it in a formal or professional setting can sound overly casual or even dismissive.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
