soeng5 toi2上枱上台

Jyutpingsoeng5 toi2

Yaleséuhng tói

Definition

To serve dishes to the dining table; to set someone up; to bring a matter to an official meeting.

to serve dishes to a dining table
slangto trap, frame, or set someone up
colloquialto bring an agenda or matter to an official meeting for discussion

colloquialfoodpeople

How it's used

Beyond the literal meaning of serving food to a table, this phrase carries a strong negative connotation when used to describe interpersonal conflict. It implies a calculated move to expose someone or force them into a difficult, often public, position. The transition from a restaurant setting to a social trap is a common metaphorical shift in Cantonese slang.

Examples

di1啲sung3餸cyun4全bou6部soeng6上zo2咗toi4枱mei6未aa4呀？

Have all the dishes been served yet?

keoi5佢seng4成jat6日soeng2想wan2搵gei1機wui6會zoeng1將ngo5我soeng5上toi2枱。

He is always looking for a chance to set me up.

Common phrases

jit6熱laat6辣laat6辣soeng5上toi2枱

served piping hot

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with simply putting something on a table, which would be 放喺枱面. Using 上枱 in a non-food context specifically implies a malicious or strategic intent to embarrass or frame someone.