名不副实

míng bù fù shí

Rare

Save to list

Definitions

1. the name does not reflect the reality (idiom); more in name than in fact
2. Reality does not live up to the name.
3. Excellent theory, but the practice does not bear it out.

Stop forgetting what you study.
Build recall daily.

Try HanyuGuide's Chinese review system with multiple choice, typed recall, tone-aware practice, and reviews scheduled before memory fades.

Start Free Trial · $49.99 / year

Sign up with Google

Did Google show an error? Sorry about that. Use your email below instead.

Continue with Email

Lifetime for $119.99 Try a practice session

Child Words of 名不副实

• 不 不 bù: no; not so
• 副 副 fù: secondary
• 名 名 míng: name
• 实 实 shí: real