zyu2 sei2煮死
Jyutpingzyu2 sei2
Yalejyú séi
Definition
To set up, frame, or inform on someone, often to secure their conviction with fabricated evidence.
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
This term carries a strong sense of malicious intent, often implying a calculated effort to ruin someone's reputation or career. It is frequently used in workplace or social contexts where someone is actively working behind the scenes to get another person fired or in trouble. The imagery of cooking someone to death suggests a slow, deliberate process of entrapment rather than a sudden outburst of anger.
Examples
He keeps badmouthing me in front of the boss, clearly trying to set me up.
Why would you betray your own friend like that?
Related words
Common phrases
wanting to set someone up
to be set up by someone
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal cooking. It is strictly metaphorical and carries a heavy, negative connotation that should be avoided in polite or formal company.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
