Common short idioms

足元を見る

[ashimoto wo miru]

Watching the feet – taking advantage of weaknesses Observing someone's steps to find their flaws – this idiom refers to exploiting others' vulnerable moments to force unfavorable prices or conditions. → Used to describe unethical behavior in negotiations or business.

足を洗う

[ashi wo arau]

Washing one's feet – withdrawing from a bad path Like a monk washing his feet before entering the temple – this idiom refers to the determination to give up a bad profession or a wrongful path. → Used when talking about rehabilitation or turning over a new leaf in life.

頭が下がる

[atama ga sagaru]

bow the head – admiration Bowing the head out of respect and admiration – an idiom expressing admiration for noble qualities or worthy actions. → Used to show respect for those who live ethically and make silent sacrifices.

合わせる顔がない

[awaseru kao ga nai]

no face left – too ashamed to meet anyone Unable to look others in the eye out of shame or guilt – an idiom expressing a feeling of remorse. → Used to describe the state of regret after disappointing someone or doing something shameful.

腹芸

[fukugei]

The art of the belly – implicit understanding, unspoken "Communicating with the belly" means nonverbal communication, understanding each other's intentions without explanation. → Used to refer to the ability to read situations and understand the intentions of superiors or partners without direct words.

以心伝心

[ishindenshin]

Conveying intentions – understanding without words From one heart to another – expressing a deep resonance between two people, often without the need for words. → Used to describe wonderful empathy and harmony between close friends, lovers, teammates, etc.

顔が広い

[kao ga hiroi]

broad connections – wide acquaintances Refers to someone who has many social relationships and is familiar with people from various fields. → Used to compliment someone who is good at networking and has a large social network.

肩身が狭い

[katami ga semai]

narrowed shoulders – feeling belittled When someone feels unworthy or looked down upon, they tend to withdraw into themselves – this image implies feelings of shame or inferiority. → Used when it is hard to hold your head high due to circumstances or mistakes.

腰が低い

[koshi ga hikui]

Bowing low – humility, politeness The act of bowing shows politeness – this idiom is used to praise someone who knows how to behave and is not arrogant even in a high position. → Used to commend people of status who still maintain a humble and courteous attitude.

耳が痛い

[mimi ga itai]

Ear pain – hitting a weak spot Hearing correct feedback but feeling uncomfortable because it hits the sore spot – this idiom expresses the feeling of discomfort when being reminded of one's own mistake. → Used when you have to listen to correct feedback that you don't want to accept.

良薬口に苦し

[ryōyakukuchininigashi]

Good medicine tastes bitter – honest words hurt feelings Medicine that cures is often bitter – a metaphor for frank words that are hard to hear but beneficial. → Used to advise accepting criticism in order to improve.

心臓が強い

[shinzō ga tsuyoi]

Strong heart – brave, thick-skinned A person with a strong heart does not tremble with fear – an idiom referring to someone who dares to do controversial things and is not easily swayed. → Used to describe someone who is daring, fearless, or very steadfast.

白い目で見る

[shiroi me de miru]

"Looking with white eyes" – a cold, contemptuous gaze An emotionless, icy look – an idiom referring to a gaze lacking sympathy, critical in nature. → Used to describe discrimination or judging others with a disdainful attitude.

面の皮が厚い

[tsura no kawa ga atsui]

thick-skinned – shameless, not knowing embarrassment The image of skin so thick that one cannot feel shame. Used to describe someone who is stubborn and not afraid of criticism. → Used to criticize someone who is unashamed, regardless of what others say.

腕を磨く

[ude wo migaku]

Sharpening the arm – honing skills Like sharpening a knife to make it sharper, this idiom refers to the effort of practicing to improve one's craft. → Used when talking about developing skills or expertise.

後ろ髪を引かれる思い

[ushirogami wo hikareru omoi]

the feeling of having your hair pulled from behind – reluctant to leave The image of someone pulling your hair as you turn away – expresses lingering regret, unwillingness to part. → Used when leaving a place, loved ones, or a job with reluctance.