Translation guide
Describes a location directly in front of or below someone, often implying proximity, submission, or a physical setting. The most natural Japanese expressions depend on whether the meaning is literal (physical location), figurative (under someone's influence), or idiomatic (the world at one's feet).
To say something or someone is physically at or near someone's feet.
The most common and neutral way to say 'at one's feet' in a literal sense. Used for objects, people, or animals located near the feet.
A cat is sleeping at my feet.
I put my bag at my feet.
Same reading and meaning as 足元に, but uses the kanji 下 (under). Slightly more formal or literary, but interchangeable in most contexts.
The scenery spreading at one's feet
Literally 'near the feet'. Used when emphasizing proximity rather than directly at the feet.
The dog is sitting at my feet.
To express being under someone's power, charm, or authority, often in a romantic or persuasive context.
An idiomatic phrase meaning 'cannot even reach someone's feet', i.e., far inferior. Often used in negative form.
His talent is far beyond me (lit. doesn't even reach my feet).
Idiom meaning 'to take advantage of someone's weakness' or 'to exploit someone's vulnerability'. Literally 'to look at someone's feet'.
Literally 'to prostrate oneself at someone's feet', expressing extreme submission or worship. Very formal/literary.
To express that someone has great opportunities, success, or admiration, as in 'the world is at one's feet'.
A direct translation of the idiom, understood but not as common as the English phrase. Used in inspirational contexts.
The world is at the young person's feet.
A four-character idiom meaning 'a bright future lies ahead', capturing the sense of boundless opportunity without the literal feet imagery.
He has the world at his feet.
Directly translating 'at one's feet' into Japanese for figurative meanings (e.g., 'she has him at her feet') often sounds unnatural. Use idiomatic expressions like 足元を見る or rephrase the idea entirely.
Both are read あしもと and mean 'at one's feet'. 足元 is more common in everyday writing, while 足下 appears in formal or literary contexts. The difference is minor.
He took advantage of my weakness (lit. looked at my feet).
They prostrated themselves at the king's feet.