Copyright © 2026 Kotomora. All Rights Reserved.
骨に刻む (ほねにきざむ) Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Meanings 1
expression, godan verb (-mu)
engrave in one's heart ; never forget
idiomatic expression
Idiomatic expression meaning to remember something deeply and permanently, as if carved into one's bones. Often used for lessons, gratitude, or painful experiences.
彼かれ
の
親しん
切せつ
は
骨ほね
に
刻きざ
む
ほど
感かん
謝しゃ
し
て
いる
。
I am so grateful for his kindness that I will never forget it.
Similar words 心こころ に 刻きざ む Similar meaning of 'engrave in one's heart,' but uses 心 (heart) instead of 骨 (bones). 骨に刻む is more emphatic and less common.
肝きも に 銘めい じる Also means 'to take to heart' or 'to remember firmly,' but is more formal and often used in serious contexts.
Etymology The expression literally means 'to carve into one's bones,' emphasizing a deep, unforgettable impression. The exact origin is uncertain, but it follows a common pattern of using body parts metaphorically for deep memory.
