expression, godan verb (-ku)
seek substance over show; discard the flower for the fruit
Idiomatic expression meaning to prioritize practical results or substance over superficial appearance or formality. Often used in contexts of pragmatism, simplicity, or focusing on what truly matters.
彼は華を去り実に就く主義で、無駄な装飾を一切省いた。
He follows the principle of seeking substance over show, eliminating all unnecessary decoration.
この計画では華を去り実に就くことが求められている。
This plan calls for discarding the flower for the fruit—focusing on practical results.