jat1 wok6 pou5一鑊泡一镬泡
Jyutpingjat1 wok6 pou5
Yaleyāt wohk póuh
Definition
In a chaotic state; in a total mess; a plight.
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How it's used
Evokes the imagery of a cooking pot where everything is boiling over or stuck together, implying a situation that has spiralled out of control. It is frequently used to describe projects, plans, or interpersonal situations that have become hopelessly tangled or ruined. The term carries a strong sense of frustration and helplessness regarding the state of affairs.
Examples
This whole thing has become a total mess, how are we going to wrap it up?
Their entire plan is a complete disaster.
Related words
Common phrases
to make something into a complete mess
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 鑊氣, which refers to the desirable smoky flavor imparted by a hot wok in cooking. Using one to describe the other would lead to significant confusion.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
