ngaa5 fu2 leoi4 ming4瓦釜雷鳴瓦釜雷鸣
Jyutpingngaa5 fu2 leoi4 ming4
Yalengáh fú lèuih mìhng
Definition
To describe mediocre people who are in positions of power.
writtenpeoplework
How it's used
This idiom is a classical allusion derived from the phrase "瓦釜雷鳴，高岸深谷", which contrasts the loud, hollow sound of an earthen pot with the silence of deep valleys. In modern Hong Kong, it is used to mock people who hold prestigious titles or positions of power despite lacking genuine talent or substance. It carries a strong sense of disdain and is typically reserved for formal or semi-formal critiques of leadership.
Examples
They are just mediocre people in high positions, pretending to be experts.
Why would the company hire such incompetent people in high positions for management?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general term for "loud people," but it specifically requires the context of someone holding a position of authority or influence that they do not deserve.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
