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HSK 7-9
yǒuhaveyǎneyesnozhūpearl
To be blind to talent or worth; not to know a good thing when one sees it.

Literal meaning

have (有) — eyes (眼) — no (无) — pearl (珠)

Origin

A classical four-character phrase criticizing someone's poor judgment.

Examples

zhēnshìyǒuyǎnzhūderénzhèmehǎodehuìdōucuòguòle
You really don't know a good thing when you see it, you missed such a good opportunity.
Lǎobǎnyǒuyǎnzhūmáiledecáihuá
The boss is blind to talent and has buried his talent.

Usage & nuances

Negative connotation; implies a lack of discernment.

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