syun3 laa1算啦
Jyutpingsyun3 laa1
Yalesyun lā
Definition
Forget it; never mind; let it go.
colloquialcommunicationemotion
How it's used
This phrase functions as a versatile social lubricant that signals the end of a dispute or the abandonment of an expectation. It often carries a resigned or dismissive tone depending on the speaker's pitch and context. Using it effectively allows one to avoid further confrontation or to gracefully exit an awkward interaction.
Examples
You don't want to help either? Then never mind.
Related words
Common phrases
Never mind, just let it be.
Common mistake
Beginners often mistake this for a literal calculation or math term, but it is strictly a discourse marker. Avoid using it in formal settings as it can sound overly dismissive or impatient if the other person is trying to explain themselves.
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).
