coi1 gwo3 nei5 baa2 hau2啋過你把口啋过你把口
Jyutpingcoi1 gwo3 nei5 baa2 hau2
Yalechōi gwo néih bá háu
Definition
Shut your bad mouth of unflattering, inappropriate or unlucky words
colloquialcommunicationother
How it's used
Used as a protective verbal charm to ward off bad luck when someone mentions a misfortune, death, or disaster. It functions similarly to knocking on wood in Western culture, effectively cancelling out the negative energy of the preceding statement. It is considered quite blunt and is usually reserved for close friends or family members who have said something particularly ominous.
Examples
coi1 gwo3 nei5 baa2 hau2 m4 hou2 gong2 maai4 di1 gam3 m4 lou5 lai4 ge3 je5
啋過你把口，唔好講埋啲咁唔老嚟嘅嘢。
Shut your mouth, don't say such unlucky things.
nei5 zou6 me1 gong2 ni1 di1 zan1 hai6 coi1 gwo3 nei5 baa2 hau2 aa4
你做咩講呢啲？真係啋過你把口呀。
Why are you saying this? Seriously, shut your mouth.
Related words
Common phrases
coi1 gwo3 nei5
啋過你
Shut your mouth (shorter version)
Common mistake
Avoid using this phrase in formal settings or with people you do not know well, as it can sound aggressive or rude. It is strictly a colloquial reaction to bad omens and should not be used as a general command to be quiet.
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- 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.
