waai6 dou3 gaa1 ling4 jat1壞到加零一坏到加零一
Jyutpingwaai6 dou3 gaa1 ling4 jat1
Yalewaaih dou gā lìhng yāt
Definition
Extremely bad; as bad as it can get.
colloquialdescriptionsemotion
How it's used
Originating from the concept of adding one to a scale of ten, this idiom implies that something has surpassed the maximum limit of badness. It is used to emphasize an extreme degree of negative quality, whether referring to a person's moral character or the state of a malfunctioning object. The phrase carries a strong, hyperbolic tone that makes it very effective for expressing intense frustration or disapproval.
Examples
This person's character is absolutely terrible, don't hang out with them.
The computer is completely broken, it won't even turn on.
Related words
Common phrases
having an incredibly rotten personality
having an extremely terrible attitude
Common mistake
Do not use this phrase to describe something that is merely 'not good' or 'slightly broken', as it is reserved for the absolute worst-case scenarios. Using it for minor inconveniences will sound overly dramatic and unnatural to native speakers.
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.
