ceoi1 bo1 bo1吹波波
Jyutpingceoi1 bo1 bo1
Yalechēui bō bō
Definition
To blow bubbles, or to undergo a breathalyzer test.
- to blow soap bubbles
- slangto take or undergo a police breathalyzer test
colloquialdaily actionsother
How it's used
The term is a classic example of how Cantonese uses reduplication to create a playful or informal tone. While it literally refers to the childhood activity of blowing soap bubbles, it has been adopted as the standard colloquial way to refer to a police breathalyser test. The context is usually clear from the situation, but it is worth noting that the police usage is quite common in news and casual conversation.
Examples
Children love blowing bubbles in the park.
Related words
Common phrases
hold a bubble wand
breathalyser test at a police roadblock
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 吹水, which means to chat or brag. Using 吹波波 in a context about talking will sound confusing or nonsensical to native speakers.
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.
