ho4 baau1 dou3 diu3荷包倒吊
Jyutpingho4 baau1 dou3 diu3
Yalehòh bāau dou diu
Definition
To have an empty wallet, or to spend money to the point of bankruptcy; also used to describe extravagance or splurging.
- figurativeto have an empty wallet; to spend money to the point of bankruptcy
- figurativeto splash money around; to be extravagant or splurge
colloquialmoney
How it's used
This idiom vividly describes someone spending money recklessly as if their wallet were turned upside down, causing all contents to spill out. It carries a strong sense of disapproval or concern regarding the subject's lack of financial restraint. It is specifically used to describe impulsive or excessive spending habits rather than just a one-time purchase.
Examples
He is always splashing money around, buying one thing after another.
It is not easy for you to earn money, so stop splashing it around all the time.
Related words
Common phrases
always splashing money around
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal descriptions of a wallet, as the phrase is strictly metaphorical for spending behavior. It is not used to describe someone who is simply broke or has lost their wallet.
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.
