laai3厲厉
Jyutpinglaai3
Yalelaai
Definition
To glare or stare at someone sharply, typically in a serious manner that causes fear.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
This verb specifically describes a sharp, intimidating gaze that makes the recipient feel uncomfortable or threatened. It is almost always used with the aspect marker 住 to indicate a continuous, fixed stare. While it can imply anger, it is frequently used to describe a stern or strict demeanor, such as a teacher watching over a classroom.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 厲害, which is a common adjective meaning impressive or fierce. When used as a verb, it must be followed by 住 to sound natural in spoken Cantonese.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
