zang1 do1 zuk1 siu2僧多粥少
Jyutpingzang1 do1 zuk1 siu2
Yalejāng dō jūk síu
Definition
Demand exceeds supply; an insufficient amount of goods or resources to distribute among a large number of people.
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How it's used
This idiom vividly captures the frustration of intense competition for limited resources. It is frequently used in professional or academic contexts to describe situations where the number of candidates far exceeds the available openings or opportunities. While it carries a slightly formal tone due to its idiomatic nature, it is widely understood and used in everyday speech.
Examples
There are too many applicants for too few jobs these days, it is really hard to find work.
There are very few spots for this program, have you applied yet?
Related words
Common phrases
too many students for too few university places
too many applicants for too few job openings
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.
