bun2 dei6 goeng1 m4 laat6本地薑唔辣本地姜唔辣
Jyutpingbun2 dei6 goeng1 m4 laat6
Yalebún deih gēung m̀h laaht
Definition
The idiom meaning local things or people are undervalued compared to those from abroad.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
This idiom reflects a common cultural sentiment where people perceive local talent or products as inferior to imported ones. It is frequently used to critique workplace hiring biases or consumer preferences that favor international brands over domestic ones. The tone is often one of frustration or cynical observation regarding the lack of recognition for local quality.
Examples
They hire foreigners instead of locals; it really shows that local talent is undervalued.
Why do you think foreign goods are better? Don't you think local products are any good?
Related words
Common phrases
local talent or product
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe actual ginger. It is strictly a metaphorical expression for people or products, not a culinary term.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
