geoi1 gou1 lam4 haa6居高臨下居高临下

Jyutpinggeoi1 gou1 lam4 haa6

Yalegēui gōu làhm hah

語句

Definition

To look down from a high place, or to occupy a high position with a sense of superiority.

to look down from a high place; to occupy a commanding height
figurativeto hold a high position and look down on others; to have a sense of superiority

neutraldescriptionspeople

How it's used

Often used to describe a physical vantage point, the phrase frequently shifts to a negative metaphorical sense when applied to interpersonal behavior. It implies an arrogant or condescending attitude where one person assumes a position of power over others. Unlike neutral descriptions of height, using this to describe a person suggests they are being patronizing.

Examples

喺hai2山saan1頂deng2居geoi1高gou1臨lam4下haa6望mong6落lok6去，heoi3風fung1景ging2真zan1係hai6好hou2靚。

Looking down from the mountaintop, the scenery is really beautiful.

keoi5佢seng4成jat6日geoi1居gou1高lam4臨haa6下gam3咁deoi3對jan4人，gaau2搞dou3到daai6大gaa1家dou1都hou2好m4唔zung1鍾ji3意keoi5佢。

He always treats people with a sense of superiority, which makes everyone dislike him.

Common phrases

geoi1居gou1高lam4臨haa6下ge3嘅zi1姿taai3態

a condescending attitude

geoi1居gou1高lam4臨haa6下gam3咁mong6望

to look down from a high position

Common mistake

Avoid using this to describe someone who is simply taller than others, as the phrase specifically implies a psychological or social power dynamic rather than just physical stature.