heoi1 jau5 kei4 biu2虛有其表虚有其表
Jyutpingheoi1 jau5 kei4 biu2
Yalehēui yáuh kèih bíu
Definition
To look impressive but lack real substance; attractive on the outside but empty within.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
This idiom is used to criticize something or someone that appears attractive or impressive on the surface but lacks quality or substance underneath. It is commonly applied to consumer goods, buildings, or even people's professional skills. The tone is critical and carries a sense of disappointment after an initial positive impression.
Examples
This restaurant is beautifully decorated, but unfortunately it is all show and no substance.
Related words
Common phrases
completely all show and no substance
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple adjective, but it functions as a descriptive phrase that acts like a predicate. It cannot be used to modify a noun directly, so you cannot say a 虛有其表嘅人; instead, you must say 個人虛有其表.
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.
