cong1 hoi2 wai4 zyu1滄海遺珠沧海遗珠
Jyutpingcong1 hoi2 wai4 zyu1
Yalechōng hói wàih jyū
Definition
An unnoticed treasure; a valuable person or thing that has been overlooked.
writtendescriptions
How it's used
This idiom carries a slightly literary or sophisticated tone, often used in reviews or when recommending something that deserves more recognition. It is frequently applied to creative works like songs, books, or films, but can also describe talented individuals who have not yet been discovered by the public. Using it adds a touch of elegance to your critique, distinguishing your opinion from a simple description of something being good but unknown.
Examples
This old song is truly an overlooked gem, it sounds better than many new songs.
Do you think this shop is an overlooked gem or just overrated?
Related words
Common phrases
definitely an overlooked gem
to discover an overlooked gem
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe something that is simply unpopular because it is of poor quality. It specifically implies that the subject has high intrinsic value and deserves fame or success, rather than just being obscure.
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.
