有些看似破舊或被忽視的事物，其實仍然保留著價值與作用。《爛船都有三斤釘》正好提醒人們，不應輕易低估任何人或事。
Things that appear worn out or insignificant often still hold hidden value. This Cantonese saying reminds us not to underestimate what seems old or unimportant.
意思
中文
「爛船都有三斤釘」這句廣東話歇後語，字面意思是一艘已經破舊不堪的船，仍然可以拆出不少鐵釘，顯示即使外表殘舊，內在仍有一定價值。這個具體的畫面被引申為一種人生觀：無論一個人處於什麼境況，即使看似失勢、過氣或條件不佳，仍然可能保留著能力、資源或經驗。這句話常用來提醒他人不要輕視任何人，尤其是在競爭或合作之中，表面上的弱勢並不代表真正的無用。另一方面，它也可以用來自我鼓勵，在困境之中肯定自身仍有價值與潛力。這種說法帶有務實與包容的意味，反映出對事物內在價值的重視，而不是只看外表或現狀。在社會與人際互動中，這句歇後語傳遞出一個重要觀念：每個人都有其存在的價值，只是表現形式與時機不同而已。
English Version
The literal image of this saying is a worn-out ship that still contains a number of usable nails. Despite its deteriorated appearance, it retains elements of worth that can still be salvaged. Metaphorically, it suggests that even those who seem outdated, disadvantaged, or overlooked may still possess valuable skills, knowledge, or resources. It serves as a reminder not to judge solely based on appearances or current circumstances. In competitive or collaborative environments, those who appear weak may still have strengths that are not immediately visible. At the same time, the phrase can be used as encouragement, especially for those facing setbacks, emphasizing that one’s value does not disappear with hardship. It reflects a practical and respectful perspective, recognizing that worth often lies beneath the surface and may reveal itself in unexpected ways.
用法
中文
這句歇後語常用於提醒他人不要低估某人，尤其是在評價能力或價值時。例如在競爭、合作或討論中，可以說：「唔好睇少佢，爛船都有三斤釘。」亦可用於自我鼓勵，表達即使處境不佳仍有可用之處。
English Version
This saying is often used to caution against underestimating others, particularly when judging someone’s ability or worth. It can also be used as self-encouragement, expressing confidence that value remains even in difficult circumstances.
小故事：
中文
阿成曾經是公司裡的核心員工，但隨著新技術興起，他逐漸被邊緣化，許多人認為他已經跟不上時代。有一次，公司遇到一個棘手問題，新團隊嘗試多次仍未解決。主管想起阿成過去的經驗，便請他幫忙。阿成仔細分析後，很快找出問題關鍵，並提出有效方案，讓項目重新步上正軌。大家這才發現，他的經驗與判斷力仍然十分寶貴。會後，有同事感嘆：「真係爛船都有三斤釘。」阿成只是淡淡一笑，他知道自己或許不再是最前線的人，但仍然有能力發揮價值。這次經歷不但讓他重拾信心，也讓團隊重新認識到，真正的實力並不會因時間而消失，只是換了一種形式存在。
English Version
Ah Shing used to be a key employee in his company, but as new technologies emerged, he gradually became less central to daily operations. Many assumed he was no longer relevant. One day, the company faced a complex issue that the newer team couldn’t resolve despite multiple attempts. The manager decided to consult Ah Shing, recalling his past experience. After reviewing the situation, he quickly identified the root of the problem and предложed an effective solution, putting the project back on track. His colleagues were surprised, realizing that his knowledge and judgment were still highly valuable. Someone remarked, “Even an old ship has its worth.” Ah Shing simply smiled. He understood that while he might not be at the forefront anymore, his abilities had not disappeared. This experience restored his confidence and reminded the team that true capability does not fade—it evolves.
結語
中文
價值不在於外表新舊，而在於內在是否仍有力量。看見別人的潛力，也是在拓展自己的眼界。
English Version
Value is not defined by appearance or age, but by what remains within. Recognizing others’ potential is also a way of broadening one’s own perspective.
