zi6 biu1治標治标
Jyutpingzi6 biu1
Yalejih bīu
Definition
To treat only the symptoms of a problem; to apply a temporary stopgap measure.
colloquialworkdescriptions
How it's used
Often paired with 治本 to contrast superficial fixes with fundamental solutions. It carries a slightly critical tone, implying that the current approach is insufficient or lazy because it avoids addressing the root cause. You will frequently hear it used in professional or analytical contexts when discussing policy or long-term strategy.
Examples
What you are doing is just a stopgap measure, it won't solve the problem.
Relying only on fines is just a temporary fix, how can it work without changing the system?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply fixing something. It specifically highlights the inadequacy of a solution that ignores the underlying source of a problem.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
