jat1 zi1 bun3 gaai2一知半解
Jyutpingjat1 zi1 bun3 gaai2
Yaleyāt jī bun gáai
Definition
To have incomplete knowledge of something; to know only a little and lack deep understanding.
neutraldescriptionscommunication
How it's used
This idiom carries a slightly critical tone, often used to call out someone who acts confident about a subject they have not fully grasped. It is more formal than simply saying 知少少, making it effective for expressing mild annoyance or cautioning others against relying on incomplete information.
Examples
You only have a superficial understanding of this, so don't talk nonsense.
Related words
Common phrases
to have a superficial understanding of something
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a total lack of knowledge, as it specifically implies a small, fragmented amount of understanding rather than complete ignorance.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
