dou6 gou1 jat1 cek3 ，mo1 gou1 jat1 zoeng6道高一尺，魔高一丈
Jyutpingdou6 gou1 jat1 cek3 ，mo1 gou1 jat1 zoeng6
Yaledouh gōu yāt chek ，mō gōu yāt jeuhng
Definition
As virtue rises one foot, vice rises ten, meaning that evil forces grow even faster and overcome the good.
colloquialother
How it's used
This idiom is frequently used to describe situations where defensive measures are constantly outpaced by new, more sophisticated methods of deception or crime. It carries a sense of resignation or cynical realism about the difficulty of maintaining order or integrity. While it originates from Buddhist texts, it is now a common way to comment on technological security, scams, or competitive strategies.
Examples
It really is a case of the evil prevailing over the good; no matter how we guard against it, we cannot stop it.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with a simple statement of good versus evil. It specifically highlights the frustration of being one step behind an adversary, rather than just the moral conflict itself.
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.
