lou1 hei2 laa1撈起啦捞起啦
Jyutpinglou1 hei2 laa1
Yalelōu héi lā
Definition
To strike it rich, make it big, or achieve great financial success.
colloquialmoneywork
How it's used
Originating from the Cantonese tradition of Lo Hei during Lunar New Year, this phrase has evolved to describe someone who has achieved significant financial success or career advancement. It carries a sense of upward mobility and prosperity, often implying that the person started from a humble position. It is frequently used in a celebratory or slightly envious tone when discussing someone's sudden or hard-earned rise to wealth.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal act of tossing food during the Lunar New Year dish, which is also called 撈起. Context is essential to distinguish between the idiom for success and the specific culinary ritual.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
Adverb
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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.
