koeng4 zung1 zi6 jau5 koeng4 zung1 sau2強中自有強中手强中自有强中手
Definition
However strong you are, there is always someone stronger; there is no limit to skill, so one must not be arrogant.
How it's used
This proverb serves as a humble reminder that no matter how skilled or successful one becomes, there will inevitably be someone more capable. It is frequently invoked to temper the pride of someone who is showing off or acting conceited about their achievements. The phrase carries a tone of wisdom and caution, often used by elders or mentors to encourage a lifelong commitment to improvement.
Examples
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal description of a physical fight, but it is almost exclusively used in the context of skills, intelligence, or professional expertise. It is not a casual comment for everyday situations but rather a piece of advice regarding character and humility.
Grammar color guide
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.
