Tag Archives: misfortune

All eyes upon you, Masao-kun

Posted on August 9, 2020 by

弱り目に祟り目(Yowarime ni tatarime; “In a time of weakness, a curse”) Definition: To be beset by compounded troubles when things were already bad. To be kicked when you’re down. Having salt rubbed on your wounds. Things were already worrisome, then they … Continue reading →

Posted in Japanese, Kotowaza | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Don’t bee sad!

Posted on August 30, 2015 by

泣き面に蜂 (Nakitsura ni hachi; “A wasp in a crying face”) Definition: It never rains but it pours. Bad things happen in groups, not in isolation. Misfortune compounded on top of further misfortune. A wasp flying into the face of someone … Continue reading →

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

For when you just have to say “At least it wasn’t….”

Posted on January 18, 2015 by

不幸中の幸い (Fukouchuu no saiwai; “Happiness amidst misfortune.”) Definition: A cloud’s silver lining. A small consolation in hard times or sadness. A small mercy that things weren’t worse. Breakdown: This kotowaza is simply a noun phrase. 幸い (saiwai) is a noun … Continue reading →

Posted in Japanese, Kotowaza | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment