jau5 zi1 sai3 mou5 sat6 zai3有姿勢冇實際有姿势冇实际
Jyutpingjau5 zi1 sai3 mou5 sat6 zai3
Yaleyáuh jī sai móuh saht jai
Definition
All show and no substance; having the form or appearance but lacking any practical value or reality.
colloquialdescriptionspeople
How it's used
Focuses on the contrast between outward appearance and internal capability. It is frequently used to criticize someone who puts a lot of effort into looking professional or skilled but fails to deliver any tangible results. The phrase is inherently dismissive and often implies that the person is merely posturing.
Examples
He is all style and no substance, just for show.
This plan looks impressive, but is it all talk and no action?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply incompetent. It specifically requires the subject to have a flashy or convincing facade that masks their lack of real ability.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
