jap6 lai4 laa1入嚟啦
Jyutpingjap6 lai4 laa1
Yaleyahp làih lā
Definition
Come in; an invitation for someone to enter.
colloquialdaily actionscommunication
How it's used
This phrase combines the verb 入 with the directional particle 嚟 and the sentence-final particle 啦 to create an inviting tone. It is significantly more natural than using the formal 入來, which sounds stiff or like written Chinese. Adding 啦 at the end softens the command, making it sound like a friendly suggestion rather than an order.
Examples
The door isn't locked, come on in.
Why are you still standing at the door? Come in quickly.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 嚟 with 去. Use 入嚟 when the speaker is already inside the space, and 入去 when the speaker is outside or referring to a destination further away.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
