dyun2 siu2 zing1 hon6短小精悍

Jyutpingdyun2 siu2 zing1 hon6

Yaledyún síu jīng hohn

Definition

Short in stature but smart, capable, and robust.

neutralpeopledescriptions

How it's used

This idiom is primarily used to describe people who possess a compact physical build while simultaneously displaying great mental acuity or professional competence. It carries a positive, respectful tone, often highlighting that one should not underestimate someone based solely on their height. It is frequently applied to athletes, martial artists, or efficient workers.

Examples

keoi5佢seoi1雖jin4然saang1生dak1得dyun2短siu2小zing1精hon5悍，daan6但zou6做je5嘢hou2好jau5有。

Although he is short and stocky, he is very capable at work.

bin1邊go3個waa6話keoi5佢dyun2短siu2小zing1精hon5悍zau6就m4唔daa2打dak1得aa4呀？

Who says that just because someone is short and sturdy they cannot fight?

Common phrases

san1身jing4形dyun2短siu2小zing1精hon5悍

a short and capable build

Common mistake

Do not use this to describe inanimate objects or abstract concepts, as it specifically refers to human physical stature and capability. It is also not a neutral description of height, as it implies a sense of toughness or capability that simple descriptors like 矮 do not convey.