zo2 laan4阻攔阻拦
Jyutpingzo2 laan4
Yalejó làahn
Definition
To obstruct, stop, or block someone from moving forward or taking action.
neutraldaily actionspeople
How it's used
Focuses on the physical or metaphorical act of standing in someone's way to prevent progress. It carries a slightly more formal or serious tone than the common spoken term 阻住, which is often used for minor inconveniences like blocking a doorway. Use this when describing a deliberate effort to halt an action or movement.
Examples
Someone is blocking the way ahead, we cannot walk past.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this for minor, unintentional obstructions like standing in someone's view at a concert; for those situations, use 阻住 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
