saan1 saan1 loi4 ci4姍姍來遲姗姗来迟
Jyutpingsaan1 saan1 loi4 ci4
Yalesāan sāan lòih chìh
Definition
To arrive very late; slow in coming; unpunctual.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Carries a slightly formal or literary tone despite being used in daily speech to describe someone who is habitually or annoyingly tardy. It often implies that the person is not just late, but perhaps leisurely or unconcerned about the time they have wasted for others. Use it when you want to sound a bit more dramatic or critical about someone's lack of punctuality.
Examples
He is late every single time, it is really rude.
Why are you so late? Everyone has been waiting for a long time.
Related words
Common phrases
always late
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe inanimate objects or abstract concepts, as it specifically refers to the behavior of people. It is also not suitable for minor delays of a few minutes; it is reserved for situations where the delay is significant or repeated enough to cause frustration.
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.
