tin1 gou1 wong4 dai3 jyun5天高皇帝遠天高皇帝远
Jyutpingtin1 gou1 wong4 dai3 jyun5
Yaletīn gōu wòhng dai yúhn
Definition
The mountains are high and the emperor is far away; a remote place where central authority cannot reach.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
This idiom describes a situation where local authorities or individuals act without fear of consequences because they are physically distant from central power. It is frequently used to explain why rules are ignored or why corruption thrives in isolated regions. While it carries a sense of lawlessness, it can also be used to describe the feeling of freedom from strict oversight.
Examples
It is so remote here, who is going to pay attention to you?
He thinks that because he is far away from authority, he can do whatever he wants.
Related words
Common phrases
to think one is beyond the reach of the law
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe physical distance alone. It specifically implies a lack of accountability or oversight due to that distance.
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.
