Four-character idioms with numbers: clear explanations of meanings and usage
“Isshin furan” (single-minded devotion), “shichiten hakki” (fall down seven times, get up eight), “juunin toiro” (to each their own)…
Have you noticed that these common four-character idioms all contain numbers? Many four-character idioms with numbers express life lessons and mindsets.
Some describe achieving two results with one action, while others convey the strength to rise no matter how many times you fail.
Knowing their meanings can make daily life feel richer.
In this article, we’ve collected four-character idioms that include numbers.
We also explain their meanings and usage in detail, so try incorporating them into your everyday conversations.
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Four-character idioms that include numbers: Clear explanations of meanings and usage (21–30)
to struggle desperately; to have a hard time; to be in dire straits (shiku-hakku)
Shiku-hakku is a four-character idiom that means to struggle greatly.
It is said to originate from Buddhist terminology.
The initial “four sufferings” are birth, aging, sickness, and death; the subsequent “eight sufferings” add separation from loved ones, contact with those one hates, frustration from unfulfilled desires, and the suffering arising from the five aggregates.
In Buddhism, these eight sufferings are considered unavoidable for humans.
An example of usage would be: “Even though I struggled mightily, I finally reached the goal.” Also, be careful not to misread it as “shikku-hakku.”
The return of the sun; the turning of the tide toward good fortune (often used to mean a revival or a new beginning after adversity).
@hjc.aki Ichi-yō rai-fuku: Winter will surely end and spring will come; tough times will surely end and happiness will arrive.The return of the sun (symbolizing the turning of misfortune to good fortune)translationCalligrapherCalligraphyTranslation
♬ Soranji – Mrs. GREEN APPLE
Like the end of a cold winter and the gentle return of spring, the four-character idiom “Ichiyō Raifuku” means that good fortune comes after a spell of misfortune.
On days when you fail at studying or sports, or when something sad happens, you may worry that things will stay this way forever.
Even so, time moves forward little by little, and a new light begins to shine into your heart.
Even if school life doesn’t go smoothly, by continuing to move forward—even if only in small steps—the situation will surely change.
It is a four-character idiom that gives you the courage to keep hope in your heart.
In conclusion
Four-character idioms that include numbers add color to many moments in everyday life.
Accepting differences among people, focusing intently on a goal, and maintaining a positive spirit that doesn’t yield to hardship—each phrase carries wisdom and a warm message passed down through the ages.
Try slipping them into conversation, exploring their meanings with your children, or keeping them in your heart as words to encourage yourself.
Harness the power of language as your ally, and enjoy each day more richly.