Translation guide
A word or phrase used in a non-literal way to create a rhetorical effect. This guide covers how to express the concept of a 'figure of speech' itself, as well as common Japanese figurative expressions.
Referring to the rhetorical device itself, such as metaphor, simile, or hyperbole.
The most common and general term for 'figure of speech' or 'metaphor'. Used in both everyday and academic contexts.
それは単なる比喩です。
That's just a figure of speech.
Examples of figures of speech in Japanese, such as metaphors and idioms, that an English speaker might encounter or want to use.
Literally 'even monkeys fall from trees'. Equivalent to 'even Homer nods' or 'nobody's perfect'. A common proverb used as a figure of speech.
猿も木から落ちるというから、失敗しても気にするな。
They say even monkeys fall from trees, so don't worry about making mistakes.
When you want to clarify that you are speaking figuratively, you can say 「比喩的に言うと」(figuratively speaking) or 「それは比喩です」(that's a figure of speech). This is useful to avoid misunderstandings.
比喩的に言うと、人生は旅のようなものだ。
Figuratively speaking, life is like a journey.
Many English figures of speech do not translate directly into Japanese. For example, 'break a leg' would be confusing if translated literally. Instead, use a natural Japanese equivalent or explain the meaning.
His speech is full of figures of speech.
Refers to rhetoric or rhetorical devices more broadly. Often used in literary or academic contexts.
修辞を効果的に使う。
Use figures of speech effectively.
A literary term for figures of speech or rhetorical flourishes. Rare in everyday conversation.
この詩は文彩が豊かだ。
This poem is rich in figures of speech.
Literally 'even want to borrow a cat's paws'. Means 'extremely busy and willing to accept help from anyone'. A hyperbolic figure of speech.
今週は猫の手も借りたいほど忙しい。
This week I'm so busy I could use all the help I can get.
Literally 'mouth slips'. Means 'to make a slip of the tongue' or 'to let something slip out'. A common figurative expression.
つい口が滑って秘密を話してしまった。
I accidentally let the secret slip out.
Literally 'have no eyes'. Means 'to be extremely fond of something' or 'to be a sucker for something'. A figurative idiom.
彼は甘いものに目がない。
He has a sweet tooth (literally: he has no eyes for sweets).
Literally 'stomach stands up'. Means 'to get angry'. A very common figurative expression for anger.
彼の態度には本当に腹が立つ。
His attitude really makes me angry.
Saying 'break a leg' won't be understood.
Saying 'break a leg' won't be understood.