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Jyutpingcaa4 paai4
Yalechàh pàaih
Definition
To check business licenses, referring to police raids on entertainment establishments to inspect for illegal activities.
colloquialplacesother
How it's used
Originally referring to checking business licenses, this term has evolved into a common way to describe police raids on bars, clubs, or mahjong parlours. It carries a sense of suddenness and authority, often implying that the establishment might be operating illegally or violating safety regulations. While it sounds like a formal procedure, it is used very casually in everyday conversation to warn friends or describe a scene.
Examples
It seems like the police are coming here to check licenses tonight.
Related words
Common phrases
to be raided by the police
police conducting a license check or raid
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a routine inspection of a standard retail shop or a restaurant during business hours, as it specifically implies a police-led raid on entertainment venues.
Grammar color guide
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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.
