Tag Archives: irony

Out of the wrong, something sweet

嘘から出た実(Uso kara deta makoto;“Truth that came from a lie”) Definition: Something that was said as a lie or joke turns out to be true after all. Note that this applies to coincidences and accidental truths, not “fake it ‘til you … Continue reading

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The curse of the wart-cure??

ミイラ取りがミイラになる (Miiratori ga miira ni naru; “The mummy-hunter becomes a mummy”) Definition: A person, sent to get someone and bring them back, themselves ends up staying away. A person who goes to convince someone of something ends up being convinced … Continue reading

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How to make of yourself an evening vessel

Today’s four-character compound stands in direct opposition to last time’s 栴檀は双葉より芳し. 大器晩成 tai.ki.ban.sei Literally: big – container/tool – evening – become Alternately: Great skill blooms late. Just as a large vessel such as a cauldron or temple bell isn’t cast … Continue reading

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