ceoi3 fo2淬火
Jyutpingceoi3 fo2
Yalecheui fó
Definition
To quench; a metal heat treatment process where heated metal is cooled rapidly to harden its surface.
neutralwork
How it's used
This term is a technical metallurgical process rather than a general word for cooling something down. It specifically refers to the rapid cooling of metal to increase its hardness, and you would rarely hear it used outside of a workshop or industrial context. While it sounds formal, it is the standard term used by tradespeople in Hong Kong.
Examples
The master quenched the iron piece to make it harder.
Has this component been quenched yet?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this word to describe cooling down a hot drink or food, as it implies a specific chemical and physical change in metal properties. For cooling down everyday items, use 攤凍 instead.
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.
