ceot1 lai2 hang4出嚟行
Jyutpingceot1 lai2 hang4
Yalechēut lái hàhng
Definition
To make a living in the underworld; to lead a gangster life.
colloquialpeopleslang
How it's used
Carries a strong connotation of being involved in triad culture or criminal activities, rather than just working in a specific field. It is often used in movies or dramatic contexts to describe someone who has left a normal life to join the underworld. The phrase implies a lifestyle that is dangerous and requires a specific code of conduct.
Examples
He has been in the underworld since he was young and is very loyal.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not use this phrase to describe someone starting a new job or going out to socialize, as it specifically refers to criminal or gang-related involvement.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
