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.
