jan5 baau3引爆
Jyutpingjan5 baau3
Yaleyáhn baau
Definition
To detonate or ignite; also used figuratively to trigger a major event.
- to detonate; to ignite; to trigger an explosion
- figurativeto trigger a major event, controversy, or crisis
neutraldaily actionscommunication
How it's used
Beyond the literal sense of detonating explosives, this verb is frequently used metaphorically to describe the sudden eruption of intense public debate or social conflict. It carries a sense of volatility, suggesting that the situation was already tense and only needed a small trigger to explode. It is a strong, dramatic choice of words that implies a significant and often negative impact.
Examples
The bomb disposal expert detonated the bomb.
His remarks ignited a controversy online.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this for starting a simple argument or minor disagreement, as it implies a large scale, explosive reaction. For smaller conflicts, use 挑起 or 引起 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
