zoek6 lung4 pou4 m4 ci5 taai3 zi2着龍袍唔似太子着龙袍唔似太子
Jyutpingzoek6 lung4 pou4 m4 ci5 taai3 zi2
Yalejeuhk lùhng pòuh m̀h chíh taai jí
Definition
To not look the part despite being dressed up; lacking a dignified air or the poise matching one's attire.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This idiom targets the lack of natural charisma or inner substance that cannot be compensated for by external appearances. It is a sharp, critical remark used to deflate someone who is trying too hard to project an image of wealth, status, or authority that they clearly do not possess. The phrasing focuses on the mismatch between the high quality of the clothing and the low quality of the wearer's demeanor.
Examples
He is always putting on airs, but he really doesn't have the presence to pull it off.
Even if you buy designer clothes, what is the point if you still don't look the part?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply poorly dressed or wearing the wrong size. It specifically refers to an internal lack of class or authority, not just a fashion faux pas.
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.
