bok3 ji4 bat1 zing1博而不精
Jyutpingbok3 ji4 bat1 zing1
Yalebok yìh bāt jīng
Definition
To have wide but shallow knowledge; to be a jack of all trades but master of none.
writtendescriptionsother
How it's used
This idiom carries a slightly critical tone, often used to warn someone against spreading their energy too thin across too many interests. It highlights the contrast between breadth of knowledge and depth of expertise. While it can describe a hobbyist, it is frequently used to critique a lack of professional specialization.
Examples
He is a jack of all trades but master of none; he knows a little bit of everything.
Do you want to be a jack of all trades, or is it better to focus on one thing?
Common phrases
to learn many skills but master none
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a positive trait of being well rounded, but it is almost always used to point out a deficiency in deep understanding or skill mastery.
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.
