mat6 ji5 hon2 wai4 gwai3物以罕為貴物以罕为贵
Jyutpingmat6 ji5 hon2 wai4 gwai3
Yalemaht yíh hón wàih gwai
Definition
Things are valued for their rarity; scarcity increases value.
neutralother
How it's used
This idiom is used to explain why something scarce commands a high price or holds significant value. It is frequently applied in contexts involving limited edition products, collectibles, or even rare opportunities. Unlike some other idioms, it is often used as a standalone explanation for market trends or personal preferences.
Examples
This watch is valued for its rarity, it's very hard to buy.
Do you know the principle that things are valued for their rarity?
Related words
Common phrases
the principle that rarity makes things valuable
Common mistake
Learners often try to use this as a direct adjective to describe a rare object, but it functions as a complete sentential observation or a proverb rather than a descriptor.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
