idiom (chengyu) HSK 5
Traditional 名不副實
the name does not match the reality · unworthy of the name · more in name than in fact
Meaning
This chengyu describes situations where something's reputation, title, or name doesn't correspond to its actual quality or reality. It's used when expectations based on a name or reputation are disappointed by the actual experience or truth.
Usage
Used in both written and spoken contexts to criticize or express disappointment when reality falls short of reputation. Commonly applied to products, restaurants, institutions, or people whose actual quality doesn't match their fame or claims. Often used in reviews or evaluations.
Examples
- 01这家餐厅虽然很有名，但菜的味道名不副实。, .Although this restaurant is famous, the taste of the food doesn't live up to its reputation.
- 02他的表现让人失望，真是名不副实的专家。, .His performance was disappointing; he's truly an expert in name only.
Characters
Antonyms
Origin
Classical Chinese construction meaning 'the name doesn't match the reality.' The character 副 here means 'to match' or 'to correspond to,' creating a formal expression about the gap between reputation and substance.