food on the table matters more than social status
A humorous proverb meaning that practical needs like food are more important than family pedigree or social standing. Literally 'taro stems over family status'.
As the saying goes, 'taro stems over family status'—you can't do anything on an empty stomach.
Standard kanji spelling for this proverb.
Variant with kana for がら, common in casual writing.
Alternate kanji for がら; less common.
A proverb contrasting 家柄 (family status) with 芋茎 (taro stems, a humble food). The exact origin is uncertain, but it humorously prioritizes sustenance over pedigree.