laai1 gan1拉筋
Jyutpinglaai1 gan1
Yalelāai gān
Definition
To stretch; to do stretching exercises.
colloquialhealthsports
How it's used
Focus on the physical sensation of tension rather than just the movement itself. It is almost exclusively used in the context of sports, yoga, or physiotherapy to prepare muscles for activity or to improve flexibility. You will often hear people complain about how painful it is, as the goal is to reach the limit of muscle extension.
Examples
Remember to stretch before you exercise.
Do you stretch every day?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with stretching an object like a rubber band or a piece of dough. Use it strictly for human or animal muscles and limbs.
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.
