Tag Archives: understanding

The hammer of kindness

Posted on November 7, 2021 by Confanity

鑿と言えば槌(Nomi to ieba tsuchi;“When [asked for] a chisel, [one also brings a] mallet”) Definition: To be intelligent and thoughtful in all things – as a description, or as an imperative. If someone asks you to bring them a chisel, having … Continue reading →

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The quick and the subtle

Posted on March 3, 2021 by Confanity

当意即妙 tou.i.soku.myou Literally: appropriate – mind / idea – instant – strange / delicate Alternately: Clever; quick-thinking. Able to handle a situation (appropriately!) as soon as it arises. Notes: This configuration is based on the Buddhist phrase 当位即妙. In this … Continue reading →

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Ambition is for the birds

Posted on July 19, 2020 by Confanity

燕雀安くんぞ鴻鵠の志を知らんや (Enjaku izukunzo koukoku no kokorozashi wo shiran ya; “How could the swallow or sparrow understand the goose or swan?”) Definition: People of lowly character or small ability don’t, and can’t, understand the thought processes and ambitions of those with … Continue reading →

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If brains were bombs

Posted on August 19, 2018 by Confanity

…would it blow your mind? 目から鼻へ抜ける (Me kara hana e nukeru; “From the eyes to the nose”) Definition: Able to understand things or grasp a situation almost immediately. Quick-witted; quick on one’s feet. Highly intelligent. Breakdown: We begin with the … Continue reading →

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Kindred spirits, thrown together

Posted on April 29, 2015 by Confanity

意気投合 i.ki.tou.gou Literally: mind – spirit – throw – join Alternately: Getting along with someone really well. Hitting it off. Finding a kindred spirit. Mutual understanding. Perfect concordance. Note: For some reason it’s easy for me to start thinking that … Continue reading →

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