lung5攏拢
Jyutpinglung5
Yalelúhng
Definition
To get closer or gather together.
- to approach; to get closer
- to gather; to assemble
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Use this term primarily when describing physical movement towards a central point or an object. It often implies a deliberate action of closing the distance between people or things. While it functions as a verb, it is very frequently paired with the particle 埋 to emphasize the completion of the movement or the resulting state of being close.
Examples
Move a bit closer, let's all gather together to take a photo.
The boats have moved close to the shore, ready to unload cargo.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin usage where it can mean to monopolize or control. In Cantonese, it is strictly about physical proximity or gathering, and using it to mean control will sound unnatural or confusing to locals.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
