Easy for elementary school students to remember! A four-character idiom that expresses the feeling of trying your best
Many elementary school students may be thinking, “I’m trying so hard, but I’m not seeing results…” Surely the adults around them, watching over their efforts, also want to offer the right words.
In these seven articles, we introduce four-character idioms that express children’s desire to “try hard” and their spirit of “persevering.” They’re easy for elementary schoolers to understand and useful in everyday life, so learn their origins too and let them motivate you in your studies and club activities!
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Easy for elementary schoolers to remember! Four-character idioms that express the spirit of trying hard (11–20)
to lie on firewood and taste gall (an idiom meaning to endure hardship and persevere for future revenge or success)
This four-character idiom, read as “gashinshōtan,” means to endure hardship and persevere over a long period of time to achieve one’s goals.
If you keep making an effort, there will be moments of failure and discouragement.
At such times, some children may find strength in this idiom.
Even if they experience setbacks, it would be wonderful if they could use those experiences as a springboard to aim higher and ultimately achieve their goals.
For the parents and guardians who watch their children’s efforts most closely, being encouraged by this idiom can be a real source of power.
trial and error
A four-character idiom that many people know.
It’s read as “shikō sakugo,” and it seems to mean repeatedly trying various methods, accumulating failures, and pursuing a solution.
Failure is part and parcel of taking on challenges, and there are moments when results don’t keep pace even with continued effort.
However, if you look at life from a long-term perspective, you could say that experiencing a single example means you’re still in the process of exploring solutions.
It’s best to adjust your approach and find a path that suits you.
calm and composed
Pronounced “taizen jijaku,” “taizen” refers to being calm and unshaken by things, while “jijaku” describes remaining composed without panic no matter what happens.
Combined, these two similar compounds express a state of composure that is unmoved by anything.
When you face tasks that require careful thought, you might find yourself flustered.
That’s exactly when you should recall this four-character idiom—and share it with your children, too.
triumphant; elated; full of high spirits
This four-character idiom is often used in positive situations where someone’s expression is radiant because things are going well.
It’s commonly used when someone feels proud after achieving a goal or returns victorious from a competition.
“Iki” refers to one’s frame of mind, while “yōyō” conveys a sense of pride or triumph.
Try using it in moments filled with joy and confidence, such as: “He won the contest and came back in high spirits,” “He was brimming with confidence after being entrusted with a new job,” or “She won the lottery and returned in a triumphant mood.”
giving it your all
This four-character idiom teaches the importance of facing what’s right in front of you with all your strength.
Even if studying or sports don’t go as you’d like, if you keep challenging yourself without giving up, your abilities will gradually grow.
Even when the results aren’t ideal, the experience of giving your all becomes confidence and gives you the courage to take the next step.
Putting your whole heart into something moves the hearts of those around you—friends at school, family, and others.
It’s an encouraging phrase that conveys the value of persevering and giving your best effort in any situation.
every move; every action
“Ikkyō-ichidō” (literally, “every single move”) is a four-character idiom that means paying attention to one’s actions and taking responsibility for them.
By being mindful even of small behaviors—such as how you speak and act at school or at home, and how you interact with friends—you can deepen trust with those around you.
In studying or sports, focusing carefully on each individual movement also makes it easier to achieve results.
Another appeal is that by being conscious of the small actions you take every day, you can build good habits and feel your own growth.
Keeping this phrase in mind helps cultivate the ability to live a careful and fulfilling life.
Easy for elementary school kids to remember! Four-character idioms that express the spirit of doing your best (21–30)
One day, one lifetime
Ichinichi isshō (One day, one lifetime) means treating each day with such care and intention that it becomes as meaningful as a whole life.
It encourages valuing your daily school life, playtime, studying, and lessons.
By keeping this in mind when you wake up in the morning or take on something new, you cultivate the drive to work positively toward your goals.
Including it in your New Year’s resolutions helps you adopt a mindset that makes each day fulfilling rather than wasted—an actionable and cool four-character idiom.