Common short idioms

刺身のつま

[sashimi no tsuma]

Garnish for sashimi – an accessory, not important The garnish is overlooked – an idiom referring to someone considered unnecessary or ignored. → Used when someone feels left out or unappreciated.

袖の下

[sode no shita]

under the sleeve – covert bribery A discreet way of handing over money inside the sleeve – refers to the act of giving a bribe. → Used when talking about unofficial gifts or 'under-the-table' envelopes.

砂をかむよう

[suna wo kamu yō]

like chewing sand – tasteless, boring Chewing sand is both dry and bland – an image describing a state of utter boredom and lack of interest. → Used when talking about life or work that no longer brings any emotion.

太鼓判を押す

[taikoban wo osu]

Big drum stamping – absolute guarantee From the act of stamping a big seal on a document – an idiom meaning assurance and credibility. → Used when you want to say “I guarantee for sure.”

有終の美を飾る

[yuushuu no bi wo kazaru]

Beautiful ending – outstanding completion until the last moment No matter how it starts, what matters is to finish beautifully. → Used to praise someone who has completed a process or career perfectly.

Common short idioms

刺身のつま

袖の下

砂をかむよう

太鼓判を押す

有終の美を飾る

Utilidades