expression
better to ask and be embarrassed than not ask and never know
Proverb encouraging asking questions even if it causes momentary embarrassment, because remaining ignorant leads to lasting shame.
「問うは一旦の恥、問わぬは末代の恥」というから、わからないことはすぐに聞いたほうがいい。
They say 'better to ask and be embarrassed than not ask and never know,' so you should ask right away if you don't understand something.
A Japanese proverb contrasting the temporary shame of asking a question with the lasting shame of remaining ignorant. The exact origin is uncertain, but it reflects a common didactic theme in Japanese and other cultures.