noun
overreaching and failing; trying to grasp the unattainable
A yojijukugo derived from a Buddhist parable: a monkey tries to catch the moon's reflection in water and drowns. Used to describe futile attempts beyond one's ability or station.
猿猴捉月のたとえは、身の程を知らぬ愚かさを戒める。
The parable of the monkey catching the moon warns against the folly of not knowing one's limits.
彼の計画は猿猴捉月に終わった。
His plan ended in a futile attempt beyond his reach.