laap6 wai1立威

Jyutpinglaap6 wai1

Yalelaahp wāi

Definition

To establish authority or prestige; to inspire awe.

colloquialpeoplework

How it's used

Often used to describe someone who attempts to establish dominance or command respect through intimidation, rather than through genuine leadership or merit. It carries a negative connotation, implying that the person is insecure and needs to force others to submit. It is frequently paired with actions like scolding or posturing to create a sense of fear.

Examples

keoi5佢seng4成jat6日baai2擺fun2款laap6立wai1威，gaau2搞dou3到di1啲tung4同si6事hou2好m4唔zung1鍾ji3意keoi5佢。

He is always putting on airs to assert authority, which makes his colleagues dislike him.

nei5你ji5以wai4為daai6大seng1聲naau6鬧jan4人zau6就ho2可ji5以laap6立wai1威me1咩？

Do you think you can inspire awe just by shouting at people?

Common phrases

baai2擺fun2款laap6立wai1威

to put on airs and assert authority

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with simply being authoritative or professional. It specifically refers to the act of creating a fearful or imposing presence, which is usually perceived as arrogant or petty by others.