Translation guide
A traditional Japanese unit of length, roughly equal to 30.3 cm or about one foot. Also refers to a wooden measuring tool of that length, and appears in idiomatic expressions.
shaku (unit of length)
About 30.3 cm; used in traditional measurements.
Expressing the traditional Japanese unit of length (approx. 30.3 cm)
The standard term for the shaku unit. Commonly used in traditional contexts like carpentry, architecture, and kimono-making.
This pillar is six shaku long.
One shaku is about 30.3 centimeters.
Referring to the physical ruler or measuring stick of one shaku length
Using 'shaku' in set phrases or proverbs
Literally 'the shaku lengthens', meaning to become more skilled or improve, often used in traditional arts.
Through continued practice, my skill improved.
Literally 'take a shaku', meaning to measure or assess something, often used figuratively.
Proverb: 'Even a one-sun bug has a half-shaku soul.' Means even the small and weak have their pride. Uses shaku in a metaphorical sense.
In modern Japan, the metric system is standard. Shaku is mainly used in traditional fields like carpentry, architecture, and kimono-making. When giving measurements in everyday conversation, use centimeters or meters unless the context is specifically traditional.
One shaku is almost exactly one foot (30.48 cm vs. 30.3 cm). In rough conversions, you can think of 1 shaku ≈ 1 foot, but for precision, note the slight difference.
Check the right angle with a carpenter's square.
まずは相手の力量の尺を取る。
First, gauge the opponent's ability.
As the saying goes, even a tiny bug has a fighting spirit, so don't underestimate the weak.