Tag Archives: ladle

For I am the ruler of all that I spoon

Posted on March 17, 2021 by Confanity

杓子定規 shaku.shi.jou.gi Literally: scoop – child – determine – measure Alternately: Assessing everything based on the same criteria, regardless of whether this is appropriate or not. Inflexible; clinging to a single set of rules no matter what. Like trying to … Continue reading →

Posted in Japanese, Yojijukugo | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Pets, utensils, and maybe even people!

Posted on March 14, 2021 by Confanity

猫も杓子も (Neko mo shakushi mo; “Even cats and serving-spoons”) Definition: Everyone and everything. “All that and the kitchen sink.” “Everyone and their brother.” Everything at hand, thrown together in a jumble without distinction. I get the impression that this phrase … Continue reading →

Posted in Japanese, Kotowaza | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Now I’m caught on the phrase “ear-spoon.”

Posted on November 22, 2015 by Confanity

Counterpoint: 杓子は耳掻きにならず (Shakushi wa mimikaki ni narazu; “A ladle can not be used as an ear-spoon.”) Definition: This saying directly opposes last week’s 大は小を兼ねる. It declares that a larger thing can not necessarily fulfill the role of a smaller one, … Continue reading →

Posted in Japanese, Kotowaza | Tagged , , , , , | 1 Comment