dak1 go3 tai2 zi6得個睇字得个睇字
Jyutpingdak1 go3 tai2 zi6
Yaledāk go tái jih
Definition
Superficial things that are only good for looking at, or things one can see but not touch or own.
- something superficial with no practical use; only for show
- something one can only look at but is not allowed to touch or own
colloquialdescriptionsother
How it's used
Describes items that are aesthetically pleasing but functionally useless or inaccessible. It carries a dismissive tone, often used to criticize poor quality products or impractical purchases. The phrase highlights the gap between appearance and utility.
Examples
This phone looks quite nice, but it is just for show and cannot be used at all.
Related words
Common phrases
bought it just for show
fundamentally just for display
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 睇字 which literally means reading words. The phrase is a fixed expression where the structure is rigid and cannot be modified by adding other verbs or objects.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
