lat1 dai2甩底
Jyutpinglat1 dai2
Yalelāt dái
Definition
To break a promise, stand someone up, or fail to show up as agreed.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
Originally referring to the bottom of a container falling out, this term now describes someone failing to show up for a planned event or failing to fulfill a commitment. It carries a strong sense of frustration and implies that the person has let others down at the last minute. It is frequently used in social or work contexts where reliability is expected.
Examples
Please don't stand me up again this time.
He bailed out right before leaving, it's so infuriating.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being late, as it specifically implies a complete failure to appear or follow through on a promise. It is a colloquial term and should be avoided in formal or professional written communication.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.



