Tag Archives: Book of the Later Han

How about when elephants fight?

Posted on May 26, 2019 by

疾風に勁草を知る (Shippuu ni keisou wo shiru; “In strong wind one learns of the strong grasses”) Definition: It is only after personally encountering hardships or trials that one truly understands the character and value of people who have already withstood those … Continue reading →

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Maybe they should make salmon streamers

Posted on May 5, 2019 by

鯉の滝登り (Koi no takinobori; “A carp climbing a waterfall”) Definition: Spectacular success in life. A person being as successful in society or career – in “the world” – as a carp that manages to overcome rapids and waterfalls in its … Continue reading →

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What are you, chicken?

Posted on June 22, 2017 by

They’re known for their careful scheming. 雌伏雄飛 shi.fuku.yuu.hi Literally: female – prostrate – male – fly Alternately: Following someone else while waiting for a chance to strike out on one’s own. Keeping a low profile while preparing for your time … Continue reading →

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If you want to get away from it all but hate cabbages

Posted on October 5, 2016 by

羊裘垂釣 you.kyuu.sui.chou Literally: sheep – [clothing made of animal skin and/or fur] – dangle – fishing Alternately: To avoid the vulgar world of common society and live as a hermit. To live wearing animal skins and fish in streams for … Continue reading →

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Tiger ventured, tiger gained?

Posted on March 15, 2015 by

虎穴に入らずんば虎子を得ず (Koketsu ni irazumba koji wo ezu; “If you don’t go into a tiger’s lair you won’t get a tiger cub.”) Definition: Nothing ventured, nothing gained. You won’t succeed at anything special if you’re not willing to stick your neck … Continue reading →

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