Intellectual beauty that shines! Stylish four-character idioms you can use in everyday situations

calm and composed

[Japanese Language Arts] The meaning and how to remember the four-character idiom “taizen-jijaku” (composure and self-possession)

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.

a sly old fox; a seasoned and cunning person

[Umisen-Yamasen] Meaning and example sentences of this four-character idiom @ Kerokero Dictionary ◆ 1 minute by video! Memorable♪

It’s a term born from the legend that a snake becomes a dragon after living a thousand years in the sea and mountains, and it refers to someone who is highly experienced and very accustomed to the ways of the world.

This four-character idiom conveys the wisdom and resilience of a person who has weathered many events, suggesting a strength that is not easily deceived or shaken.

Especially when imagining someone taking on challenges or remaining composed in the face of difficulties, the weight of this idiom becomes even more apparent.

It can be seen as a concise expression that encapsulates the value of experience cultivated over a long period of time.

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kojifumi

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to devote oneself body and soul; to make every possible effort; with utmost dedication

[Konkokusai-shin] Meaning and example sentences of this four-character idiom @ Kerokero Dictionary ◆ Just 1 minute in a video! Memorable♪

It is a phrase that means to put forth every ounce of effort, to the point of grinding your bones and exhausting yourself.

It symbolizes an attitude of using all the strength you have and never giving up until the very end, conveying strong determination and passion.

Despite being only four characters long, it expresses the importance of effort and seriousness.

For elementary school students, it teaches the mindset of giving their all in daily club activities and competitions.

It is a phrase that reminds us to take one step at a time and do our utmost even when facing difficulties.

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kojifumi

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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.

Cherry, plum, peach, and apricot (Ōbai Tōri)

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Four-character idiomTranslationtranslationCherry, plum, peach, and apricotHere is the revised thumbnail for a past video.

♬ Escort – MoppySound

Using the four kanji for sakura (cherry), ume (plum), momo (peach), and sumomo (Japanese plum), the idiom “ōbai tōri” (桜梅桃李) came from China and is also deeply connected to Buddhism.

Cherry blossoms create a dazzling impression of spring, yet their full bloom is brief, and they flourish with all their might.

Plums overcome the adversity of the cold winter to bloom modest yet beautifully, releasing a strong fragrance.

Peaches and Japanese plums likewise have their own distinct blossoms, each blooming at different times.

In the same way, people each have their own individuality and strengths.

This phrase teaches us to value our true selves and that being just as we are is best.

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moko

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One good deed a day

It’s a phrase that means “Do one good deed a day.” It can be something small.

For example, saying “thank you” to a friend or helping someone who’s having trouble on the street are both good deeds.

By doing even one good thing each day, you and the people around you will feel happier.

Your heart feels lighter, and you feel more energized.

If someone at school is struggling and you think, “I’ll help!”, that’s also “one good deed a day.” As you build up small acts of kindness every day, the world becomes more joyful and happy.

Keep “one good deed a day” in your heart, and spend each day with a smile.

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kepiko

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with all one’s might

This is a phrase that expresses giving your all.

“Isshō” refers to one’s lifetime, and “kenmei” means to tackle something so seriously that you’d stake your life on it.

In other words, it means to devote yourself wholeheartedly, using all your strength.

For example, you can say, “I studied really hard to get a good score on the test,” or “I worked very hard at my job.” When you give your best effort, you’ll be able to do things you couldn’t before and gain confidence.

Even if you fail, continuing without giving up will make your heart stronger and brighter.

When you take on a challenge, try approaching it with all your might.

If you do, each day will become more enjoyable and you’ll feel more excited!

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kepiko

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