mei4 bat1 zuk1 dou6微不足道
Jyutpingmei4 bat1 zuk1 dou6
Yalemèih bāt jūk douh
Definition
Trivial, insignificant, or not worth mentioning.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
This idiom carries a formal, slightly literary tone that contrasts sharply with the common colloquial term 濕碎. While it is perfectly acceptable in speech, it is most often used when someone is being humble about their own achievements or downplaying a minor obstacle in a serious context. Using it in casual conversation can sound slightly dramatic or overly intellectual.
Examples
You don't need to mind such trivial matters.
He feels his contribution is insignificant, so he doesn't dare take credit.
Related words
Common phrases
a trivial matter
an insignificant contribution
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this to describe physical size, but it strictly refers to the importance or significance of a matter, not its literal dimensions.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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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.
