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Monthly Archives: August 2016
And my xiphoid process is a blender!
臍で茶を沸かす (Heso de cha wo wakasu; “Boil tea in the belly button”) Definition: Something is so funny – or by extension, so hilariously stupid – that you can’t stand it. The image is of laughter so paroxysmal and intense that … Continue reading
Posted in Japanese, Kotowaza
Tagged へそで茶, belly button, boil tea, 臍茶, hilarious, mockery
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More genuine than genuflection?
For more pointers, watch this video. These guys are absolutely amazing when it comes to explaining Japanese culture. 平身低頭 hei.shin.tei.tou Literally: flat – body – low – head Alternately: Extreme apology or gratitude. From the literal image of kowtowing; kneeling … Continue reading
Posted in Japanese, Yojijukugo
Tagged apology, bowing, Chinese grasshopper, kowtow, The Ramens, 平身, 低頭
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Magic Monday – The GP’s bag
Curing Charms Like the Guardian Charms and Traveler’s Charms, this is a family of rituals used by common people, often with the guidance of hedge-wizards, to cure themselves of minor ailments. The practitioner must repeat certain rhymes, carry a special … Continue reading