jat1 wok6 caau2 hei2一鑊炒起一镬炒起
Jyutpingjat1 wok6 caau2 hei2
Yaleyāt wohk cháau héi
Definition
To completely ruin someone's plans, usually by breaking a promise or betraying them.
colloquialworkother
How it's used
Derived from the imagery of a wok being flipped over, this phrase implies a total and sudden collapse of a situation or project. It is often used when someone intentionally or through extreme negligence sabotages a collective effort. The tone is highly critical and suggests a sense of betrayal or frustration.
Examples
He ruined all the plans at the very last minute.
Why did you suddenly go and ruin everything?
Related words
Common phrases
to ruin everything completely
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply failing at a task. It specifically carries the nuance of active destruction or sabotage that affects everyone involved, rather than just a personal mistake.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
