分ぶんをわきまえる

expression, ichidan verb

know one's place; understand one's position

Used when someone behaves appropriately according to their social standing, role, or situation. Often implies humility or restraint.

• 彼かれは分ぶんをわきまえて、上じょう司しの前まえでは控ひかえめに振ふる舞まった。

  He knew his place and behaved modestly in front of his boss.

• 分ぶんをわきまえずに生なま意い気きなことを言いうな。

  Don't say cheeky things without knowing your place.