juk6 goi3 nei4 zoeng1欲蓋彌彰欲盖弥彰
Jyutpingjuk6 goi3 nei4 zoeng1
Yaleyuhk goi nèih jēung
Definition
To try to hide a mistake or crime, only to make it more obvious; the more one tries to hide, the more is revealed.
writtencommunicationdescriptions
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of irony, describing situations where a clumsy attempt at secrecy backfires completely. It is a formal idiom often used in news reports or serious discussions to critique someone's failed cover-up. While it sounds literary, it is frequently used in daily speech to mock someone who is clearly lying or hiding something.
Examples
The more he tries to explain, the more confused he gets; it is just making things more obvious.
Doing it this way just makes it more obvious, and now everyone can see right through you.
Related words
Common phrases
the method of concealment only makes it more obvious
the behavior is counterproductive and revealing
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple verb meaning to hide, but it specifically describes the ironic result of a failed concealment. It is not used for successful hiding, only for cases where the action makes the truth more apparent.
Grammar color guide
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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.
