jat1 saan1 waan4 bei2 jat1 saan1 gou1一山還比一山高一山还比一山高
Jyutpingjat1 saan1 waan4 bei2 jat1 saan1 gou1
Yaleyāt sān wành béi yāt sān gōu
Definition
Lit. there's always a mountain higher than another, meaning there's always one with better talents
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This idiom serves as a humble reminder that no matter how skilled or successful someone is, there will inevitably be others who are even more capable. It is frequently used to temper arrogance or to provide perspective when someone feels they have reached the pinnacle of their field. Unlike some formal idioms, it is quite common in casual conversation to warn friends or colleagues against complacency.
Examples
nei5 ji5 wai4 zi6 gei2 hou2 ging6 gei3 zyu6 jat1 saan1 waan4 bei2 jat1 saan1 gou1 aa4
你以為自己好勁？記住一山還比一山高呀。
You think you're so great? Remember that there's always someone better.
sai3 gaai3 gam3 daai6 zan1 hai6 jat1 saan1 waan4 bei2 jat1 saan1 gou1
世界咁大，真係一山還比一山高。
The world is so big, there really is always someone more talented.
Common phrases
zan1 hai6 jat1 saan1 waan4 bei2 jat1 saan1 gou1
真係一山還比一山高
it really is the case that there is always someone better
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
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.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- 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.
