📖 Meaning
Having only a handsome or impressive exterior while actually being lacking in substance or ability. The phrase criticizes people or things that look good on the surface but cannot deliver real results, i.e., all show and no substance.
📜 Origin Story
The idiom comes from the Tang dynasty, recorded in Zheng Chuhui's 'Ming Huang Za Lu' (Records of Emperor Xuanzong). During the reign of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang, the official Xiao Song, who was known for his tall stature, fine beard, and striking good looks, was asked to draft an imperial edict. When the emperor examined the draft, he was so dissatisfied with its poor quality that he threw it to the ground and exclaimed, 'It merely has an empty appearance' (虚有其表耳), mocking Xiao Song for looking impressive while being talentless.
💡 Example Usage
表面看上去他挺精明的，可实际上却是虚有其表，什么事也办不好。
He looks quite clever on the surface, but in reality he is all show and no substance—he cannot get anything done.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 虚有其表
- Pinyin: xū yǒu qí biǎo
- Literal Translation: empty, have, its, appearance
- Category: Quality
- Characters: 4