Copyright © 2026 Kotomora. All Rights Reserved.
驥尾に付す (きびにふす) Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Meanings 1
expression, godan verb (-su)
to succeed by following the lead of an expert ; to get ahead by following someone's lead
idiomatic expression
Idiomatic expression derived from classical Chinese, literally 'to attach oneself to the tail of a swift horse'. Used to describe achieving success or advancement by following a capable person. Rare in modern Japanese, mostly found in literary or formal writing.
The phrase 'kibi ni fusu' originates from a classical Chinese anecdote.
Written forms 驥き 尾び に 付ふ す
Classical idiomatic expression; the kanji 驥 is rare and may not be widely recognized. The phrase is typically encountered in literary or historical contexts.
きびに 付ふ す
Kana spelling for the first part, avoiding the obscure kanji 驥. Still a rare expression.
Kanji 尾 tail, end, counter for fish 付 adhere, attach, refer to Similar words 付つ いていく A common, everyday verb meaning 'to follow' or 'to keep up with'. Unlike 驥尾に付す, it carries no idiomatic or literary nuance and is neutral in register.
追つい 随ずい する A more formal verb meaning 'to follow' or 'to emulate'. It can be used in business or academic contexts, but lacks the specific classical allusion of 驥尾に付す.
Etymology From classical Chinese. The phrase alludes to a story in the 'Records of the Grand Historian' (Shiji) where a fly, by attaching itself to the tail of a swift horse, could travel a thousand miles. It came to mean achieving success by following a capable person. The exact historical derivation is well-established in Chinese literature.
