V/adj-て + も: How to Say “Even If …” in Japanese
Introduction Do you know how to express the idea of “even if” or “regardless of”? For example, “Even if it’s hot, I will go out” or... Read more.
[Japanese idioms] どんぐりの背比べ (donguri no seikurabe) – One is no better than the others
Meaning The phrase “どんぐりの背比せいくらべ” (Acorns comparing their heights.) refers to a situation where individuals or things are compared,... Read more.
[Japanese idioms] 尻に火がつく (shiri ni hi ga tsuku) – I am under pressure to act quickly
Meaning The phrase “尻しりに火ひがつく” (My butt catches fire. ) means to be in a critical or urgent situation where immediate action is required,... Read more.
[Japanese idioms] 手のひらを返す (tenohira o kaesu) – Change one’s attitude completely
Meaning The phrase “手てのひらを返かえす” (Flip the palm of one’s hand. ) means to abruptly change one’s attitude or opinion, often... Read more.
[Japanese idioms] 喉から手が出る (nodo kara te ga deru) – to want it so badly
Meaning The phrase “喉のどから手てがでる” (My hand comes out from my throat.) expresses an intense desire or longing for something, as if your... Read more.
[Japanese idioms] 鯖を読む (saba o yomu) – To fudge the numbers
Meaning The phrase “鯖さばを読よむ” (To read the mackerel.) means to manipulate numbers, like age or price, to one’s advantage, often to... Read more.
[Japanese idioms] 雲泥の差 (undei no sa) – A whole lot of difference
Meaning The phrase “雲泥うんでいの差さ” (The difference between clouds and mud.) refers to a vast difference, a stark contrast, or an insurmountable... Read more.
[Japanese idioms] 角が立つ (kado ga tatsu) – Cause tension
Meaning The phrase “角かどが立たつ” (Corners stand out.) means causing friction or hurting someone’s feelings by being too direct or blunt... Read more.
[Japanese idioms] 腕が鳴る (ude ga naru) – I’m excited to put my skills to the test
Meaning The phrase “腕うでが鳴なる” (My arms are making a sound) is a Japanese idiom that expresses eager anticipation to show one’s skills... Read more.
[Japanese idioms] 腹をくくる (hara o kukuru) – Make up your mind
Meaning The phrase “腹はらを括くくる” (Tie up your stomach) means to brace yourself or to make up your mind to face a difficult or unavoidable... Read more.