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.
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.
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.
Figuratively speaking, life is like a journey.
That's just a figure of speech.
His speech is full of figures of speech.
Refers to rhetoric or rhetorical devices more broadly. Often used in literary or academic contexts.
Use figures of speech effectively.
A literary term for figures of speech or rhetorical flourishes. Rare in everyday conversation.
This poem is rich in figures of speech.
They say even monkeys fall from trees, so don't worry about making mistakes.
Literally 'even want to borrow a cat's paws'. Means 'extremely busy and willing to accept help from anyone'. A hyperbolic figure of speech.
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.
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.
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.
His attitude really makes me angry.
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.
Saying 'break a leg' won't be understood.