outwardly attractive but lacking substance
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
a person with an attractive appearance but lacking knowledge or ability
neutralA metaphorical expression used to criticize someone who is superficially attractive or seemingly well-educated but lacks real substance or practical skills. Often carries a derogatory tone.
He's nothing but a pretty face, pleasant to look at but useless in practice.
Don't be fooled by her impressive academic credentials; she's actually all show and no go, unable to solve any practical problems.
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This company has hired many pretty faces who look impressive but actually have very poor capabilities.
noun
goods that look attractive but are of poor quality
neutralCommonly used to describe products with flashy packaging or appealing exteriors but inferior quality or functionality. Can be used as a modifier (e.g., 绣花枕头式的产品).
This product is all show and no substance—beautifully packaged but of very poor quality.
Don't buy appliances from that brand; they're all style and no substance, nice-looking but impractical.
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These flashy but substanceless cultural creative products have attractive appearances but lack cultural depth.