particle
lor
law
Lor (particle) means a sentence-ending word (used mainly in Singlish and similar dialects) that adds a tone of resignation, inevitability, or "that's just how it is.". Example: “Cannot go already lor.”
particle
1
A sentence-ending word (used mainly in Singlish and similar dialects) that adds a tone of resignation, inevitability, or "that's just how it is."
"Cannot go already lor."
"If you say so lor."
How to use lor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA tag added to the end of a sentence to signal a shrug-like, resigned acceptance of a situation.
When to use it
Used in colloquial Singlish and Malaysian English; not standard in other varieties of English.
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like lor.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Comparative
- more lor
- Superlative
- most lor
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Cannot go already _____.
Etymology
Borrowed from Cantonese and Hokkien particles used to express resignation.
Rhymes for lor
See all rhymes for lor →Frequently asked questions
What does “lor” mean?
The word “lor” means a sentence-ending word (used mainly in Singlish and similar dialects) that adds a tone of resignation, inevitability, or "that's just how it is.". In plain terms, a tag added to the end of a sentence to signal a shrug-like, resigned acceptance of a situation.
How do you pronounce “lor”?
“Lor” is pronounced law (/lɔː˦/ in IPA).
How do you use “lor” in a sentence?
Here is “lor” used in a sentence: “Cannot go already lor.”
What part of speech is “lor”?
“Lor” is a particle.
Where does the word “lor” come from?
The word “lor” comes from Cantonese. Borrowed from Cantonese and Hokkien particles used to express resignation.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include lor:
