[Kakizome] Four-character idioms fit for the New Year: Introducing words that resonate with the heart and their meanings
Are you thinking about what words to write for your first calligraphy of the year? Four-character idioms, which are popular every year, pack deep meaning into just a few characters and are perfect for expressing New Year’s resolutions.
Still, many people may wonder, “Which idiom should I choose?” In this article, we’ll introduce four-character idioms that are well-suited for the first calligraphy of the year.
From bold, striking phrases to words that fit your New Year’s determination, find the expression that’s just right for you.
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[Kakizome] Four-character idioms befitting the New Year: Introducing words that resonate with the heart and their meanings (101–110)
The beauties of nature — flowers, birds, wind, and the moon (a poetic expression appreciating nature’s elegance)
A four-character idiom that expresses an appreciation for the beauty of nature—flowers, birds, wind, and the moon.
It refers to things like feeling excited when seeing spring blossoms, feeling good when hearing birdsong, relaxing in a gentle breeze, and finding peace when gazing at the moon in the night sky.
For example, during summer vacation, going to the mountains to listen to birds or chatting while looking at the moon are times when you’re enjoying “kacho-fugetsu.” By sensing the beauty of nature, your heart becomes kinder and you notice new things.
Both children and adults should cherish the spirit of “kacho-fugetsu,” spending unhurried time in nature to make each day more enjoyable!
sincerity
It means “to work with all your heart, sincerely and earnestly.” For example, when a friend is in trouble, helping them honestly and wholeheartedly is an act of ‘seishin seii.’ Remembering this phrase can brighten your mood, because when you are sincere, the people around you smile and trust grows.
If you study for a test with ‘seishin seii,’ you’ll gain confidence and feel happy.
Both children and adults should cherish this phrase and spend each day energetically and joyfully!
Snow, Moon, Wind, and Flowers
This four-character idiom depicts the beautiful natural scenery of each season.
By listing the symbols of each season—winter’s snow, autumn’s moon, summer’s wind, and spring’s flowers—it expresses the changing of the seasons.
Each symbolizes the beauty of its season, conveying a sense of affection for nature.
Displaying this idiom as something you value also highlights your appreciation of elegance and refinement.
It’s an idiom that evokes history as well, suggesting a beauty that remains unchanged across the ages.
Blue sky beyond the clouds
Ungai Sōten (雲外蒼天) is a four-character idiom meaning “Beyond the clouds, the blue sky awaits,” or more broadly, “After enduring hardships, a clear, bright future lies ahead.” For example, even if studying for a test is tough, if you don’t give up and keep trying, it can lead to good results and greater confidence.
You might use it like this: “I thought it was impossible, but I kept practicing without giving up and finally did it.
It truly felt like ‘ungai sōten.’” Just as there is always blue sky above the clouds, this saying teaches us that no matter how hard things get, a brighter future surely awaits beyond.
When times are tough, remember these words and keep moving forward!
blue sky and white sun
Originally, it was a term that described a perfectly clear, cloudless day, and from there it came to be used to mean “having a clear conscience and being pure” or “having false charges lifted.” It is a four-character idiom said to originate from the words of the Chinese poet Han Yu, and it spread as a symbol of a pure heart.
It’s even said that the flag of the Republic of China was once designed based on this expression, which shows how highly it has been valued.
Let’s use this word to clearly convey that we are people of integrity.
[First Calligraphy of the Year] Four-character idioms fitting for the New Year: Introducing words that resonate with the heart and their meanings (111–120)
A sudden resolve; making a firm decision (to start afresh).
Ichinenhokki (一念発起) means making a firm decision—like saying, “Alright, let’s do this!”—and renewing your mindset to work hard.
For example: “I’m slow at running, but after I made up my mind and practiced running every day, I was chosen for the relay team at the school sports day!” That’s ichinenhokki—deciding to give your best from today on and taking action, even in areas like studying or sports that you’ve always found difficult.
It’s okay to fail.
What matters is the heart that stands back up without giving up.
If you set your mind toward your dreams and goals and take that first step, you can change your future.
Make up your mind—ichinenhokki—and carve out your own future!
indomitable; unyielding
It is a four-character idiom that means not giving up and facing challenges with a strong will, no matter what difficulties you encounter.
It teaches the importance of continuing to work hard without losing heart, even when things don’t go as planned in daily life—whether in studies, sports, or friendships.
Even for elementary school children, it conveys the importance of having the inner strength to keep trying despite failure.
By keeping this phrase in mind, you gain the courage to approach things positively and nurture the determination to never give up, even in tough situations.
It is a courageous saying that gives you the strength to step forward toward the future.
