足あし元もとの明あかるいうちに

expression, adverb

while it's still light; before dark

Literal meaning: take action while there is still daylight, often implying safety or practicality.

• 足あし元もとの明あかるいうちに山やまを下おりよう。

  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.

• 景けい気きがいい今いまのうちに、足あし元もとの明あかるいうちに投とう資しを検けん討とうすべきだ。

  While the economy is good, we should consider investing before things get worse.