Tag Archives: pride

Hot air rises

Posted on February 5, 2020 by

意気揚揚i.ki.you.you Literally: mind/heart – spirit – raise – raise Alternately: In high spirits; triumphant, elated… by extension, boastful; proud unto arrogance; full of oneself. Often used with the ironic or critical nuance that someone’s inflated self-esteem is not actually in … Continue reading →

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

A flaw for lions

Posted on September 1, 2019 by

自慢は知恵の行き止まり (Jiman wa chie no yukidomari; “Pride is the dead end of wisdom”) Definition: When pride has taken root, arrogance follows and prevents further advancement. A lack of proper humility and modesty blinds people to their own faults and weaknesses, … Continue reading →

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

When you hand-ear a neck

Posted on February 3, 2019 by

(Yes, 取 supposedly means “take” because it refers to taking a defeated enemy’s ear as a trophy in battle. So… appropriate?) 鬼の首を取ったよう (Oni no kubi wo totta you; “As if having taken an oni’s head”) Definition: Triumphant or boastful, especially … Continue reading →

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