laai1 jan4拉人
Jyutpinglaai1 jan4
Yalelāai yàhn
Definition
To arrest someone or catch a criminal.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
Beyond the literal meaning of dragging someone, this phrase is the standard colloquial way to refer to police making an arrest. It carries a slightly informal or dramatic tone compared to the more formal 拘捕. It is often used in threats or when describing a scene where someone is being taken away by authorities.
Examples
If you keep making noise, I will call the police to make an arrest.
Related words
Common phrases
to arrest a criminal and shut down their operation
Common mistake
Avoid using this to mean dragging a person physically by the arm or body, as that would be 拉住人. Using 拉人 in a physical context will sound like you are accusing them of being a criminal.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
