# 望尘莫及

wàng chén mò jí

Be unable to match or catch up

## Meaning & wording

**Literally:** See the rider's dust but cannot reach them

**Traditional Chinese:** 望塵莫及

**Register:** Admiring · literary

[Perspective](https://chinese-idioms.yudis.dev/idioms/topics/perspective)

## When to use it

Acknowledge a large gap in ability or achievement.

Usually compares a specific area, not overall human worth.

## Understanding the expression

A fast traveler is already so far ahead that another sees only the dust left behind. The image describes a gap too large to close in the present comparison. Modern speakers use it for skill, speed, achievement, or resources. It often appears as an admiring admission of another person's excellence. The statement can exaggerate, and it need not be permanent. More time, training, or different conditions may alter the comparison later.

## Examples

她的记忆力让我望尘莫及。

### Traditional Chinese

她的記憶力讓我望塵莫及。

tā de jì yì lì ràng wǒ wàng chén mò jí 。

Her memory is far beyond mine.

这项技术令同行望尘莫及。

### Traditional Chinese

這項技術令同行望塵莫及。

zhè xiàng jì shù lìng tóng háng wàng chén mò jí 。

This technology leaves competitors far behind.

他的跑步速度，我望尘莫及。

### Traditional Chinese

他的跑步速度，我望塵莫及。

tā de pǎo bù sù dù ， wǒ wàng chén mò jí 。

I cannot come close to his running speed.

资金方面，小团队望尘莫及。

### Traditional Chinese

資金方面，小團隊望塵莫及。

zī jīn fāng miàn ， xiǎo tuán duì wàng chén mò jí 。

The small team cannot match those financial resources.

## Sources & reference checks

Original explanations and examples from Chinese Idioms Almanac. Source-checked October 6, 2026.

- [CC-CEDICT · forms & pronunciation](https://www.mdbg.net/chinese/dictionary?page=worddict&wdqb=%E6%9C%9B%E5%A1%B5%E8%8E%AB%E5%8F%8A)

- [Ministry of Education · 成語典](https://dict.idioms.moe.edu.tw/idiomView.jsp?ID=150&webMd=1&la=0)

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