laai1 zyu6拉住

Jyutpinglaai1 zyu6

Yalelāai jyuh

Common

Definition

To pull and hold onto something; to hold back or detain.

colloquialdaily actions

How it's used

This verb compound functions as a resultative construction where the second element indicates the successful maintenance of a physical connection. It is frequently used in urgent situations to prevent someone from moving away or to keep an object from falling. Unlike simple verbs of pulling, it emphasizes the state of being held or restrained rather than just the act of tugging.

Examples

nei5你faai3快di1啲laai1拉zyu6住keoi5佢，m4唔hou2好bei2畀keoi4佢zau2走。

Quickly hold him back, don't let him leave.

keoi5佢laai1拉zyu6住ngo5我zek3隻sau2手m4唔fong3放，hou2好ci5似hou2好geng1驚gam3咁。

He is holding my hand and won't let go, he seems really scared.

Common phrases

laai1拉zyu6住sau2手

to hold hands

laai1拉zyu6住m4唔fong3放

to hold on tight and not let go

Common mistake

Learners often confuse this with 拖住, which specifically refers to holding someone's hand while walking together. Use 拉住 when you need to exert force to stop someone or something from moving, whereas 拖住 is for casual companionship.