bun3 tung2 seoi2半桶水
Jyutpingbun3 tung2 seoi2
Yalebun túng séui
Definition
Having only a superficial knowledge of a subject; half-baked or a dabbler.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This idiom carries a slightly derogatory tone, implying that someone is pretending to have more expertise than they actually possess. It is frequently used to criticize someone who lacks depth in their skills or knowledge. While it can describe a person, it is also commonly used as an adjective to describe a service or a piece of work that is poorly executed.
Examples
He is a jack of all trades but master of none.
Don't find an incompetent technician to fix the air conditioner.
Related words
Common phrases
an incompetent technician
half-baked skills
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is a complete beginner or knows nothing at all. It specifically refers to someone who has some knowledge but not enough to be considered proficient or reliable.
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.
