gam1 juk6 kei4 ngoi6 ，baai6 seoi5 kei4 zung1金玉其外，敗絮其中金玉其外，败絮其中
Definition
All that glitters is not gold; having a beautiful exterior but a rotten or worthless interior.
How it's used
This idiom is used to critique someone or something that appears impressive or high-quality on the surface but is actually corrupt, incompetent, or worthless underneath. It carries a strong sense of disappointment or betrayal because the external appearance creates an expectation of value that the reality fails to meet. It is a formal idiom often used in serious or critical commentary rather than casual small talk.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use this as a direct adjective to describe a person, but it functions as a descriptive phrase or predicate. It is not meant to be used as a simple compliment or a lighthearted observation, as it carries a heavy, judgmental tone regarding character or integrity.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
