ceot1 lai4 lou1出嚟撈出嚟捞
Jyutpingceot1 lai4 lou1
Yalechēut làih lōu
Definition
To enter society and make a living; to work in the world.
colloquialworkpeople
How it's used
Carries a slightly gritty or informal connotation, often implying that the person is working in the real world rather than studying or being supported by family. It is frequently used to describe someone who has entered the workforce early or is navigating the complexities of the job market. The term implies a sense of independence and the necessity of earning one's own keep.
Examples
He has been making a living since he was very young.
When do you plan to start working for a living?
Related words
Common phrases
to enter the world of work and navigate life
Common mistake
Avoid using this in formal job interviews or professional settings, as it sounds too casual and streetwise. It is strictly for informal conversation among friends or peers.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
