杯具

bēi jù
nounIntermediate
What It Really Means
A humorous or exaggerated way to describe a tragic, unfortunate, or embarrassing situation.
Literal Meaning
A cup and utensil (literally a set of tableware).
Literal Breakdown
cup+utensil
Mental Image
The mental image of a 'cup and utensil' is used to create a pun on the word 'tragedy' (悲剧), making the term humorous and exaggerated.
When to Use
A friend describes their failed exam as '杯具' to humorously express their disappointment.
Cultural Note
This term originated from Chinese internet culture and is widely used in online communities and gaming circles to describe unfortunate situations in a lighthearted way.
informal

A humorous or exaggerated way to describe a tragic, unfortunate, or embarrassing situation, often used in internet slang.

他考试没及格,简直是杯具。

He failed his exam; it's such a disaster.

这款游戏的操作太难了,玩起来真杯具。

This game is so hard to play; it's a real tragedy.

💡

The term is often used in a humorous or exaggerated way to describe unfortunate events.

Collocations

太杯具了so tragic杯具的结局tragic ending

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

杯具的一天phrase
a tragic day
杯具的结局phrase
tragic ending

💡Pro Tip

Usage Context

This term is informal and often used in casual conversations, especially among younger generations.

Gold Rule

Avoid Formal Use

Do not use '杯具' in formal or professional settings as it is considered slang.

📖Word Origin

The term '杯具' is a pun on the word '悲剧' (tragedy), where '杯' (cup) and '具' (utensil) are used to create a humorous and exaggerated expression.

📝Usage Notes

This term is commonly used in internet slang and gaming culture to describe unfortunate or embarrassing situations in a humorous way.

Word Breakdown

cup
root
+
utensil
root
汉英词典