Four-character idioms that help elementary schoolers not give up: words that spark the power to keep trying

indomitable; unyielding

Four-character idiom: Indomitable and Unyielding | Overcoming difficulties with a strong will

It looks like a difficult kanji compound, but it’s read as “futō fukutsu.” It means to persevere without slackening and without being discouraged.

When you devote yourself earnestly to your goals day by day, there will be moments when you feel like your spirit might break.

But this four-character idiom reminds us that even then, it’s important to keep challenging ourselves, even if we’re not perfect.

If you continue without bending the resolve or conviction behind your “I’ll do my best” and “I’ll see it through,” you’ll surely meet a version of yourself who has grown one step further.

Actions speak louder than words.

[Action speaks louder than words] Meaning and example sentences of the four-character idiom @Kerokero Dictionary ◆ 1 minute in a video! Sticks in your memory♪

Many people have heard of “say and do” (yūgen jikkō), but there is also the four-character idiom “fugen jikkō,” read as fugen jikkō.

Literally, it refers to pressing forward toward a goal and doing what needs to be done without saying this and that.

“Fugen” means not putting things into words or not voicing complaints and grievances.

“Jikkō” means to carry something out.

There are times when you might want to voice complaints or dissatisfaction, but this expression is good to use when you want to praise children who hold back and keep striving toward their goals.

Stay true to your original intention.

[Keeping One's Original Intent] Meaning and Example Sentences of the Four-Character Idiom @KeroKero Dictionary ◆ 1 Minute in a Video! Easy to Remember♪

Pronounced “shoshikantetsu,” it means seeing through what you start to the very end.

“Shoshi” refers to the initial intention or resolve you have when you begin something, and “kantetsu” means to carry it out without giving up until the end.

Combined, they form a wonderful four-character idiom.

It’s one of those phrases you want to remember at milestones like a new school term or any fresh start.

Even if you fail and feel discouraged, what matters is the determination to see it through to the end.

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

What does “ichinen hokki” mean? No. 100 (Makoto’s Words) [Makoto Akashi]

Try using this when you’re switching gears.

It’s one of the more common four-character idioms.

It’s read “ichinen hokki,” and it refers to making up your mind to accomplish something or reach a goal.

Everything has a beginning, and when you set a goal, you naturally get fired up.

You can use it for things like lessons, studying, or joining a new community.

In particular, when a child discovers a goal like “I want to grow!” or “I want to take on a challenge!” it’s good to say this as a way to cheer them on.

Fall down seven times, get up eight.

[Nanakorobi Yaoki] Meaning and Example Sentences of the Four-Character Idiom @ Kerokero Dictionary ◆ 1 Minute in a Video! Easy to Remember♪

It’s read as “shichiten hasshiki” or “nanakorobi yaoki.” From the idea of falling seven times and getting up eight, it refers to persevering without giving up.

It’s a four-character idiom worth remembering not only for sports and study, but also for lessons and first-time challenges.

You can use it not just for yourself but also to cheer on and encourage friends and family.

It’s one of those idioms you’ll want to share when a child is feeling down or is trying to learn from a failure.

firm and decisive

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

Pronounced “gōkikadan,” this four-character idiom refers to having a strong, firm will, abundant spirit, and the decisiveness to take bold action.

Some children may hesitate and struggle to take the first step.

This idiom carries a message you might want to share with a child at such times.

If you send the message together with words that remind them they have supportive friends and family by their side, the sentiment may come across more clearly.

It’s one of those four-character idioms that helps nurture a strong heart as you watch over a child’s efforts and daily growth.

The achievement attained through diligent study by lamplight—success won by hard, persistent effort

Professor Tamura Kizan’s Four-Character Idiom Commentary and Model Calligraphy: “The Achievement of Studying by Fireflies and Snow”

A four-character idiom derived from a Chinese classical anecdote.

It’s read as “keisetsu no kō,” and it carries the meaning that if you keep persevering and working hard, success awaits you in the end.

While you’re in the midst of making an effort, there are times when even you don’t notice your small steps of growth.

It’s an idiom with a message you’d want to convey when someone is struggling and on the verge of losing heart.

As you steadily work toward your goal, there will be moments when you feel like leaning on someone.

These are words that gently wrap around your feelings at such times.