waai4 coi4 bat1 jyu6懷才不遇怀才不遇
Jyutpingwaai4 coi4 bat1 jyu6
Yalewàaih chòih bāt yuh
Definition
To have talent but fail to find recognition or opportunity.
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How it's used
This idiom carries a slightly self-pitying or bitter tone, often used by someone who feels overlooked by employers or society. It implies a mismatch between one's actual ability and the opportunities available to them. It is rarely used in a neutral or positive context.
Examples
He is always complaining that his talents are unrecognised.
Do you feel that your talents are going unrecognised?
Related words
Common phrases
to feel that one's talents are unrecognised
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this to describe someone who is simply unemployed, but it specifically requires the nuance of having high ability that is being wasted or ignored by others.
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.
