tai2 lai2睇嚟
Jyutpingtai2 lai2
Yaletái lái
Definition
Seemingly, apparently, or looking like; used to draw a conclusion based on available information.
colloquialdescriptionscommunication
How it's used
Often placed at the very beginning of a sentence to introduce an observation or a deduction based on visual evidence. It carries a slightly conversational tone and is frequently paired with sentence-final particles like 喎 or 㗎 to soften the delivery of the opinion.
Examples
It looks like he won't be coming to work today.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it to describe a literal act of seeing, as it is strictly an adverb for expressing probability or appearance. Do not confuse it with 睇下, which is the verb phrase for 'to take a look'.
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.
