hyun1 ban1 dyut6 zyu2喧賓奪主喧宾夺主
Jyutpinghyun1 ban1 dyut6 zyu2
Yalehyūn bān dyuht jyú
Definition
To allow a minor or secondary element to overshadow the primary one; a guest usurps the host's role.
neutraldescriptionsother
How it's used
Originally a literary idiom, this is now commonly used in everyday speech to describe situations where something secondary becomes the main focus. It is frequently applied to food, fashion, or stage performances where a minor element distracts from the primary subject. It carries a slightly critical tone, implying that the balance of importance has been inappropriately disrupted.
Examples
This supporting actor's performance was so good that they stole the show.
Won't your decoration end up overshadowing the main focus?
Related words
Common phrases
a bit overshadowing
don't steal the limelight
Common mistake
Learners often use this to mean simply 'to be popular' or 'to stand out', but it specifically requires a context where the primary subject is being overshadowed or neglected because of the secondary element.
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.
