duk1 baau3篤爆笃爆
Jyutpingduk1 baau3
Yaledūk baau
Definition
To pop or poke through, or to expose a secret or lie.
- to pop; to burst; to poke a hole through
- To expose, unmask, or reveal a secret or lie
colloquialdaily actionscommunication
How it's used
Beyond the literal meaning of poking a hole in something, this term is frequently used metaphorically to mean exposing a lie or revealing a secret. It carries a sense of suddenness and finality, similar to how a bubble or balloon loses its form instantly once punctured. It is a very vivid and tactile way to describe the act of breaking a facade or revealing the truth.
Examples
The kid was playing with a ball and accidentally popped it.
If you pop that balloon again, I'm going to scold you.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 揭穿, which is used exclusively for abstract concepts like lies or secrets. While 篤爆 can be used for both physical objects and abstract secrets, 揭穿 cannot be used for physical objects like balloons or paper.
Grammar color guide
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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.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
