baak3 lok6伯樂伯乐
Jyutpingbaak3 lok6
Yalebaak lohk
Definition
An excellent judge of talent; someone who recognizes and appreciates others' potential.
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How it's used
Originating from a classic Chinese legend about a horse expert, this term is used metaphorically to describe a mentor or employer who spots hidden potential in someone before others do. It carries a strong sense of gratitude, as being discovered by a 伯樂 is often seen as a turning point in one's career or life. It is frequently used in professional contexts or when discussing personal growth.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He is truly the one who recognized my talent and gave me a chance to shine.
Do you feel like you have met someone who truly appreciates your talent yet?
Related words
Common phrases
Talented people are common, but those who recognize them are rare.
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe just any teacher or boss. It specifically implies that the person recognized a talent that was previously overlooked or undervalued by others.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
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Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
