biu2 min6 soeng6表面上
Jyutpingbiu2 min6 soeng6
Yalebíu mihn seuhng
Definition
On the surface; superficially; ostensibly.
colloquialdescriptionscommunication
How it's used
Use this to highlight a discrepancy between outward appearances and inner reality. It functions as an adverbial phrase that sets up a contrast, almost always followed by a clause starting with 其實 or 但係 to reveal the truth. It is a very common way to express skepticism about someone's stated intentions or the true nature of a situation.
Examples
He seems very polite on the surface, but actually he really dislikes you.
This matter looks simple on the surface, have you managed to handle it yet?
Related words
Common phrases
looking at it on the surface
superficial effort
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 表面, which is a noun meaning 'surface'. 表面上 is specifically used to describe how something appears to others, whereas 表面 refers to the physical exterior of an object.
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.
