来
lái
Come · trad. 來
来 (lái) is the most common and versatile verb for 'to come' in Mandarin Chinese. It generally indicates movement towards the speaker or a specified location, and is used in a wide range of situations, from simple invitations to describing arrival.
What does 来 (lái) mean?
来 (lái) means “come” in English.
When to use it
Neutral. It can be used as a standalone verb or as a directional complement after another verb. When used as a command, it can be direct but not impolite. To invite someone politely, often use 请 (qǐng, 'please') before it.
How to pronounce it
Sounds like 'lie' (as in 'lie down'), but with a rising tone. Imagine your voice going up as if asking a question.
Other ways to say it
- 过来guòlaicome over (here)
- 进来jìnlaicome in
- 回来huíláicome back
Examples
请到这里来
qǐngdào zhèlǐ lái
Please come here.
你什么时候来我家？
nǐ shénme shíhou lái wǒ jiā?
When will you come to my house?
他还没来。
tā hái méi lái.
He hasn't come yet.
Pro tip: 来 (lái) is often used as a directional complement after another verb, indicating movement towards the speaker. For example, 进来 (jìnlái) means 'come in' (enter + come), and 拿来 (nálái) means 'bring' (take + come).
Related phrases
过来 · Come here安静 · Be quiet叫 · Call
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