to1 laai1拖拉
Jyutpingto1 laai1
Yaletō lāai
Definition
To procrastinate or drag things out, or to describe a dragging, messy, or unstable situation.
- to procrastinate, dilly-dally, or drag things out
- unstable, messy, or lingering (of a relationship)
- to drag (e.g. luggage or feet)
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
Focuses on the sense of indecision or a lack of closure, often implying a situation that is unnecessarily prolonged. When describing a relationship, it suggests a messy, on-again-off-again dynamic that lacks a clear direction. It is distinct from simply being slow, as it carries a negative connotation of avoiding a final resolution.
Examples
Stop dragging this out, make a decision quickly.
Related words
Common phrases
an ambiguous or drawn-out relationship
to be indecisive and dawdling
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the physical act of pulling or dragging an object, which is usually expressed as 拖 or 拉 separately. Using 拖拉 to describe physical movement can sound unnatural or overly literary compared to just using 拖.
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.
