Four Character Idiom

Kanji is fascinating not only for Japanese people but also for people all over the world.
Among other things, four-character idioms (yojijukugo) are particularly impressive because they align four kanji characters in a way that looks cool, but they are not just a random string of characters. They contain meanings and lessons that go beyond the four characters. In Japan, people become familiar with yojijukugo from a young age and often recall the lessons learned from them in various life situations. Additionally, yojijukugo allows you to convey meanings or situations concisely without the need for long explanations. If you want to communicate with Japanese speakers in a witty and rhythmic way, I recommend learning a few yojijukugo.

Frequently Used in Daily Conversations

有言実行 (Yūgen Jikkō)

This idiom means “doing what you say.” It emphasizes the importance of following through on your words or promises with action.

先手必勝 (Sente Hisshō)

This idiom means “victory goes to the one who takes the initiative.” It highlights the advantage of making the first move or acting quickly to ensure success.

自業自得 (Jigō Jitoku)

This idiom means “you reap what you sow.” It refers to the idea that you face the consequences of your own actions, whether good or bad.

Scenery & Sentiment

花鳥風月 (Kachō Fūgetsu)

This idiom refers to the beauty of nature, symbolized by flowers, birds, wind, and the moon. It expresses an appreciation for the natural world and the changing seasons.

相思相愛 (Sōshi Sōai)

This idiom means “mutual love and affection.” It describes a relationship where both people love and care deeply for each other.

以心伝心 (Ishin Denshin)

This idiom means “telepathy” or “heart-to-heart communication.” It describes the ability to understand each other’s thoughts and feelings without words.

一日千秋 (Ichijitsu Senshū)

This idiom means “one day feels like a thousand years.” It expresses the feeling of eagerly waiting for something, where time seems to pass very slowly.

諸行無常 (Shogyō Mujō)

This idiom means “all things are transient.” It reflects the Buddhist concept that everything in life is impermanent and constantly changing.

疑心暗鬼 (Gishin Anki)

This idiom means “doubt breeds suspicion.” It suggests that once you start doubting, you begin to see things that aren’t there, leading to unnecessary fears and suspicions.

Lesson Learned

切磋琢磨 (Sessa Takuma)

This idiom means “mutual improvement through friendly competition.” It describes the process of refining oneself through hard work and encouragement from others.

一期一会 (Ichigo Ichie)

This idiom means “once-in-a-lifetime encounter.” It emphasizes that every meeting or moment is unique and should be treasured because it may never happen again.

因果応報 (Inga Ōhō)

This idiom means “cause and effect” or “karma.” It reflects the belief that one’s actions, whether good or bad, will eventually return to them as consequences.

温故知新 (Onko Chishin)

This idiom means “learning from the past to inform the present.” It encourages looking back at history or past experiences to gain new insights or understanding.

Coolness

森羅万象 (Shinra Banshō)

This idiom means “all things in the universe.” It refers to the entirety of creation, encompassing everything that exists in the natural world.

魑魅魍魎 (Chimi Mōryō)

This idiom describes “spirits and monsters” or “supernatural beings.” It refers to mysterious, often malevolent creatures or phenomena from Japanese folklore.

国士無双 (Kokushi Musō)

This idiom means “a peerless hero of the nation.” It refers to a person of extraordinary talent or virtue who is unmatched in their abilities, often used to describe a national hero or exceptional leader.

Enjoy engaging in witty conversations by making use of these four-character idioms!