ji1 laau4 cat1伊撈七伊捞七
Jyutpingji1 laau4 cat1
Yaleyī làauh chāt
Definition
Almost certainly; surely; for sure.
slangother
How it's used
Originating from the Cantonese pronunciation of the English number 117, this term is used to describe a situation where success is virtually guaranteed. It carries a slightly playful or slangy tone compared to standard expressions like 肯定 or 包贏. It is frequently heard in contexts involving gambling, sports betting, or high-stakes business negotiations.
Examples
This business deal is a sure thing.
Do you think it's a guaranteed win this time?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal numbers, as it is strictly used as an idiomatic expression for certainty. It is considered informal slang and should be avoided in professional or formal written correspondence.
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.
