bat1 wong4 do1 joeng6不遑多讓不遑多让
Jyutpingbat1 wong4 do1 joeng6
Yalebāt wòhng dō yeuhng
Definition
Evenly matched in strength, skill, ability, or power.
writtendescriptions
How it's used
Literary in origin, this idiom is frequently used in modern Cantonese to describe two parties that are equally impressive or competitive. It carries a slightly formal or sophisticated tone, often appearing in news reports, reviews, or professional commentary. Unlike simpler terms for comparison, it implies that neither side is inferior, highlighting a high level of quality on both ends.
Examples
The ball skills of those two are truly evenly matched.
le1呢gaan1間pou3舖tau2頭koi3嘅ceot1出ban2品tung4同lou5老zi6字hou6號soeng1相bei2比，wui2會m4唔wui2會bat1不wong4遑do1多joeng6讓？
Compared to the old shop, is the quality of this store's products just as good?
Related words
Common phrases
strengths are evenly matched
performances are on par with each other
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for meaning 'not busy' due to the character 遑, which relates to leisure or time. It is important to remember that the phrase is strictly used for comparing capabilities or standards, not for discussing schedules or availability.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
