Idiom

Learn the Japanese idiom どんぐりの背比べ (donguri no seikurabe), which describes a situation where everyone is nearly the same and none stands out. Includes meaning and an easy example sentence for beginners.

Learn the Japanese idiom 尻に火がつく (shiri ni hi ga tsuku), which describes an urgent situation where you must act quickly—often after procrastinating. Includes meaning and an easy example sentence for beginners.

Learn the Japanese idiom 手のひらを返す (te no hira o kaesu), which describes abruptly changing one’s attitude or opinion. Includes meaning and an easy example sentence for beginners.

Learn the Japanese idiom 喉から手が出る (nodo kara te ga deru), which expresses an intense desire for something — wanting it so badly you could almost reach for it. Includes meaning and an easy example sentence for beginners.

Learn the Japanese idiom 鯖を読む (saba o yomu), which means manipulating numbers—like age or price—to one’s advantage. Includes meaning, origin, and a simple example sentence for beginners.

Learn the Japanese idiom 雲泥の差 (undei no sa), which literally means “the difference between clouds and mud” and describes a vast or striking contrast. Includes meaning and a simple example sentence for beginners.

Learn the Japanese idiom 角が立つ (kado ga tatsu), which describes causing friction or tension by speaking too directly. Includes meaning, nuance, and an easy beginner-friendly example sentence.

Learn the Japanese idiom 腕が鳴る (ude ga naru), which expresses being eager and excited to show your skills. Includes meaning, nuance, and an easy example sentence for beginners.

Learn the Japanese idiom 腹をくくる (hara o kukuru), which literally means “tie up your stomach” and expresses making up your mind to face a challenge. Includes meaning, nuance, and example sentence for beginners.