jap6 lei4入嚟
Jyutpingjap6 lei4
Yaleyahp lèih
Definition
To come in; to enter a space.
colloquialdaily actionsplaces
How it's used
This verb is a directional compound combining the verb 入 with the directional particle 嚟, indicating movement towards the speaker. It is the standard way to invite someone into your space, such as a room or a house. Unlike formal written Chinese, this construction is essential for natural spoken interaction.
Examples
Come in and sit down quickly.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use 入去 when they are already inside the room and inviting someone else to join them. Remember that 嚟 signifies movement towards the current location of the speaker, while 去 signifies movement away.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
