Chinese

edit
build (scaffolding); take (boat, train); hang
build (scaffolding); take (boat, train); hang; join; match; take passage
 
mistake; error; blunder
mistake; error; blunder; fault; cross; uneven; wrong
 
thread; string; wire
thread; string; wire; line
 
trad. (搭錯線/搭錯綫) /
simp. (搭错线) 线
Literally: “connected the wrong line”.

Etymology

edit

This word is referring to the situation in the past where operators were required to connect calls.

Pronunciation

edit

Verb

edit

搭錯⫽線 (verb-object) (Cantonese)

  1. to have dialed the wrong number
  2. (figurative) to get one's wires crossed; to be not on the same page; to misunderstand one another
  3. (figurative) to be crazy