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.
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guò láicome over (here)
- 进来jìn láicome in
- 回来huí láicome back
Examples
请来这里。
qǐng lái zhè lǐ 。
Please come here.
你什么时候来我家？
nǐ shén me shí hòu 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
和平 · Peace钱 · Money闭嘴 · Shut up
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