2026 is the Year of the Horse! A detailed explanation of four-character idioms related to horses.
How many four-character idioms related to horses can you think of? From familiar ones like “horse’s ear, east wind” (bajitōfū: turning a deaf ear) and “Saiō losing his horse” (saiō shitsu ba: a blessing in disguise) to lesser-known expressions, there’s a wealth of idioms featuring horses.
Horses have long been close to people’s lives, and their form and nature have been etched into many words.
In this article, we highlight common four-character idioms that you can use in everyday conversation and business settings.
Once you learn their meanings and usage, you’ll find yourself nodding in agreement at the depth of the language.
Put them to use to boost your vocabulary!
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2026 is the Year of the Horse! A detailed explanation of four-character idioms related to horses (11–20)
Horses and cattle, collars and hems
This is a phrase used to admonish people who lack knowledge or cultivation, or who behave rudely.
The term “collar and hem” literally refers to the neckline and hem of clothing, implying that someone is no better than a cow or horse merely dressed in clothes—lacking human common sense.
While one might picture an animal character wearing clothes, the expression is not cute or whimsical; it carries a strong negative meaning.
It conveys the desire for the person not to be just an animal in clothes, but to become more human and sensible.
In conclusion
We’ve introduced a number of four-character idioms related to horses—did any of them ring a bell? Horses, which have had a deep connection with humans since ancient times, appear in many classical sayings and four-character idioms.
From commonly used ones to slightly rarer expressions, knowing them can greatly enrich your conversations and writing.
If any term piqued your interest, be sure to look it up in detail and try using it in everyday conversation!