lau4 dai1留低
Jyutpinglau4 dai1
Yalelàuh dāi
Definition
To stay behind or remain in a place, or to leave something behind.
- to stay behind; to remain in a place and not leave
- to leave something behind; to abandon or leave an object
colloquialdaily actionspeople
How it's used
Functions as both a verb for staying in a location and a transitive verb for leaving an object behind. It carries a sense of intentionality or consequence, often implying that something or someone is left in a state of remaining or abandonment. When used for objects, it is interchangeable with 擺低.
Examples
Can you stay behind and chat with me for a while?
He left behind a lot of unfinished business for me to clean up when he left.
Related words
Common phrases
to leave a phone number
to leave an impression
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 留低 as a phrasal verb for 'to leave behind' (an item) versus 'to stay' (a person). While both meanings exist, context is essential to distinguish whether you are asking someone to remain or asking them to leave an object in your possession.
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.
