laa1啦
Jyutpinglaa1
Yalelā
Definition
Sentence-final particle used to express a request, suggestion, invitation, or agreement.
colloquialparticle
How it's used
Adding this particle softens a command or request, making it sound more like a friendly suggestion than a harsh order. It often implies that the speaker is encouraging the listener to take action or is showing a sense of resignation about a situation. When used with a rising tone, it can sound more like an invitation or a gentle push.
Examples
Eat your meal quickly, we need to catch the bus soon.
Let's go watch a movie together, shall we?
Related words
Common mistake
Beginners often confuse this with 喇, which indicates a change of state or that something is now the case. While 啦 is used for suggestions or requests, 喇 is used to signal that a situation has shifted or a deadline has arrived.
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.
