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Interesting four-character idioms for elementary schoolers! Words you'll want to use once you understand their meanings

“I want to teach fun four-character idioms to elementary school kids!” If that’s what you’re looking for, you’re not alone.

Among the four-character idioms we casually see and hear, there are actually tons with funny meanings and origins that really capture children’s imaginations.

The sound of the words is enjoyable too, making them perfect to learn together with kids! In this article, we’ll introduce four-character idioms that will make elementary schoolers exclaim, “Wow!” with sparkling eyes—and that adults can enjoy learning alongside them.

Interesting four-character idioms for elementary schoolers! Words you'll want to use once you understand their meanings (21–30)

A sudden resolve; making a firm decision (to start afresh).

Yojijukugo: Ichinen Hokki | To make a firm resolution and embark on a new course of action.
A sudden resolve; making a firm decision (to start afresh).

It is a phrase that means making up your mind firmly to accomplish something and taking action.

When facing difficulties, having the courage to take the very first step can be the biggest hurdle.

In such moments, it helps you shake off hesitation and flip the switch toward challenge.

Whether you’re starting to study for a certification or deciding to change your lifestyle, the future begins to move from the moment you decide to do it.

To cultivate a spirit that doesn’t give up, you need the resolve not to waver once you’ve made your decision.

This phrase can be seen as a powerful ally that stands beside you at the start of any challenge.

firm and decisive

Four-character idiom commentary and model calligraphy “Gōki Kadan (Firm and Resolute Decision)” by Professor Tamura Kizan
firm and decisive

It’s a phrase that describes having a strong will and moving forward by making decisions without hesitation.

When facing difficulties, losing heart or putting off choices only makes the situation tougher.

What matters in such moments is the courage to take a heartfelt first step.

Even in adversity, you’re expected to remain steady and press on along the path you’ve chosen.

The tougher the situation—like critical decisions at work or turning points in life—the more this mindset is needed.

What sustains an unyielding spirit is unwavering resolve and the ability to take action.

Even in hard times, this is a dependable phrase that strongly encourages you to trust your choices and push ahead.

Fun Four-Character Idioms for Elementary Schoolers! Words You’ll Want to Use Once You Know Their Meanings (31–40)

Say what you mean, do what you say.

[Words and Deeds in Harmony] Meaning and Example Sentences of the Four-Character Idiom @Kerokero Dictionary ◆ 1 minute by video! Easy to remember♪
Say what you mean, do what you say.

This is a four-character idiom that means taking responsibility for your words by putting them into action.

It serves as a guideline not only for making promises but for cultivating the attitude to keep them.

Even small things like “doing your homework” or “being on time” build trust when you follow through.

If the whole class embraces this phrase, everyone becomes more mindful about keeping promises, the atmosphere tightens, and a cooperative environment emerges.

It also fosters the strength to keep challenging yourself toward goals you set, bringing the joy of seeing things through.

It’s a phrase that teaches the importance of aligning words and actions.

fair and square

[Fair and square] Meaning of the proverb and example sentences @ Kerokero Dictionary
fair and square

This four-character idiom expresses the attitude of taking on challenges the right way, without resorting to unfair methods.

By adopting it as a class goal, students cultivate a sense of fairness in various situations such as tests, sports days, and presentations.

A key point is that it fosters an atmosphere that values effort and process over results, rather than focusing only on winning or losing.

Respecting others and engaging earnestly builds trust across the class and creates a spirit of cheering each other on.

Experiences that let students hold their heads high even after failure will nourish them for the future.

It is a phrase that teaches the value of following the rules and facing challenges head-on.

In conclusion

Getting familiar with four-character idioms not only nurtures elementary school students’ language skills, but also offers plenty of fascinating discoveries.

The moments when familiar kanji take on new meanings, and the joy of encountering the wisdom of people from long ago, will surely provide positive stimulation for Japanese language studies.

By all means, children and adults alike should have fun exploring the world of new expressions.