expression, adverb
while it's still light; before dark
Literal meaning: take action while there is still daylight, often implying safety or practicality.
足元の明るいうちに山を下りよう。
Let's go down the mountain while it's still light.
expression, adverb
while the going is good; before things get worse
Figurative extension: seize the opportunity before conditions deteriorate; often used as a proverb-like warning.
景気がいい今のうちに、足元の明るいうちに投資を検討すべきだ。
While the economy is good, we should consider investing before things get worse.
Mixed spelling with 内; rare.
Similar proverbial urgency, but 善は急げ focuses on doing good deeds quickly, while 足元の明るいうちに emphasizes acting before a window of opportunity closes.
A set phrase literally meaning 'while the area around one's feet is bright,' i.e., while there is still daylight. The figurative sense developed naturally from the idea of acting before darkness (or trouble) arrives.