loi4 ji3來意来意
Jyutpingloi4 ji3
Yalelòih yi
Definition
The purpose or motive of one's visit; the reason for coming.
neutralpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This term is formal and often carries a slightly suspicious or inquisitive tone. It is frequently used when someone arrives unexpectedly or when their presence seems to have an ulterior motive. You will often hear it in dramatic contexts or when someone is being interrogated about their intentions.
Examples
You came over specifically today, what exactly is your purpose?
Related words
Common phrases
to have malicious intentions
Common mistake
Do not use this for casual visits like meeting a friend for coffee, as it implies a specific, potentially hidden agenda. It is much too heavy for everyday social invitations.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
- Possession (嘅)How to say my, your, and his, and how to link a describing word to a noun, all with the little word 嘅 (ge3).
