Intellectual beauty that shines! Stylish four-character idioms you can use in everyday situations
Yojijukugo are a linguistic art form that distills the beauty and depth of the Japanese language.
They’re popular as stylish calligraphy pieces and interior decor, and using them casually in everyday conversation can create an intellectual impression.
However, if you don’t know their correct meanings or usage, you might end up embarrassed.
So this time, we’ll introduce a world of chic yojijukugo that you can easily incorporate.
Why not enjoy discovering lovely expressions that add richer color to your daily life?
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Intellectual beauty that shines! Stylish four-character idioms you can use generally (81–90)
bright future
These are words that express the idea that the future is full of hope and possibilities.
In children’s lives—studying at school, playing sports, and building friendships—there are many opportunities for new discoveries and challenges.
Knowing this four-character idiom can give you the courage to believe that even when you face difficulties, there is surely a bright path ahead.
It serves as emotional support for elementary school students who have the potential to succeed in a wide range of fields, such as academics, sports, and hobbies, helping them move positively toward their dreams and goals.
It is a phrase that gives you the strength to believe in days filled with hope.
ingenuity and creativity
Creating something new is pretty tough, isn’t it? Still, when you want to change yourself or resolve the problems you’re facing, adopting a new way of thinking can be important.
This phrase carries the meaning of using ingenuity to discover a new approach.
When you suddenly hit a wall, try recalling this phrase and let it prompt you to think again.
Take another look, or view things from a different angle.
That kind of resourcefulness might be the spark that opens up your future!
Forge ahead with courage
The four-character idiom that means moving toward your goal without fear is “勇往邁進” (yūō maishin).
For example: “I was scared to try something new, but when I moved forward with a ‘yūō maishin’ mindset, I gained confidence in myself.” It expresses a strong heart that keeps challenging itself without giving up, even when things are difficult.
The future is full of things we don’t know yet and big dreams.
You may sometimes feel anxious and wonder, “Can I really do it?” That’s exactly when you should cherish the spirit of “yūō maishin” and keep moving toward your dreams!
triumphant; elated; full of high spirits
The four-character idiom “意気揚々 (iki-yōyō)” describes being brimming with confidence and full of energy.
When you come in first in a relay you practiced hard for, you cross the finish line with a big smile, right? That feeling is ‘iki-yōyō.’ For example: “Striding toward my big dream, I took my first step with high spirits.” No matter how difficult something is, if you keep moving forward without giving up, you can do it.
Don’t be afraid to take on challenges—shape your own future yourself!
fair and square
Before an important test or a sports match where you want to deliver results, you might be filled with anxiety.
In those moments, remember these words and hold your head high as you give it your best.
This phrase describes facing what’s in front of you without fear and with dignity.
It’s often used in athletes’ oaths at school sports days and high school baseball.
If you’ve prepared well to overcome the challenge before you, there’s nothing to be afraid of.
Face it head-on, fair and square!
unrestrained; freely and effortlessly; moving about with complete freedom (literally: in all directions)
The four-character idiom that means being able to move freely anywhere and perform to your heart’s content is “jūōmujin” (縦横無尽).
For example: “By coming up with new ideas, I’m really shining ‘jūōmujin’ even in class.” The future is still unclear, but if you act “jūōmujin,” you can take on challenges without fear.
When you remember this word, it inspires the feeling that you can advance freely through the wide world spreading out around you on your own power.
Precisely because we live in an era without clear answers, believe in your ability to be yourself and move forward anywhere!
Intellectual beauty shines! Stylish four-character idioms you can use in everyday life (91–100)
a miraculous comeback
These words express the act of getting back up even in the ultimate pinch—when you feel you can’t go on or stand up again.
There have been, and will be, many moments in life when you think, “This is impossible.
I can’t handle it.
I’m going to lose.” If you give up there, nothing about your situation will change, and it may even get worse.
If you’re someone who quickly gives up or throws in the towel with a “I’m done,” remember these words and try shifting your mindset to, “Let me try one more time.”