ming4 cyun4 sat6 mong4名存實亡名存实亡
Jyutpingming4 cyun4 sat6 mong4
Yalemìhng chyùhn saht mòhng
Definition
To exist in name only; to survive nominally but have no real substance or function.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of irony or disappointment, often used to describe institutions, relationships, or organizations that have lost their original purpose or function. It implies that while the external label or legal status remains, the core substance has completely evaporated. It is a formal idiom that is frequently used in spoken Cantonese to provide a sharp, critical assessment of a situation.
Examples
This department exists in name only, nobody cares about it at all.
Their marriage exists in name only, why keep it going?
Related words
Common phrases
a relationship that exists in name only
an organization that exists in name only
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
