Introducing the coolest Japanese phrases, as chosen by the Japanese people themselves.
This time, it’s the three-letter word edition.
Two-Character Edition is here
Three-Character Edition is here
- 一騎当千(ikkitosen)
- 疾風怒濤(shippudoto)
- 泰然自若(taizenjijaku)
- 八面玲瓏(hachimenreiro)
- 猛虎伏草(mokofukuso)
- 鬼面仏心(kimembusshin)
- 国士無双(kokushimuso)
- 百折不撓(hyakusetsufuto)
- 万里一空(banriikku)
- 駑馬十駕(dobajuga)
八面玲瓏(hachimenreiro)
■The Meaning of “八面玲瓏(hachimenreiro)”
Flawless from every angle, perfectly harmonious and impeccable.
This phrase is derived from the image of a gemstone.
八面 (hachimen): Eight faces. Figuratively, “all aspects or positions.”
玲瓏 (reiro): The quality of a gemstone being transparent and beautifully luminous.
Thus, “八面玲瓏(hachimenreiro)” signifies
a state of being flawlessly beautiful and well-ordered
from any perspective or standpoint.
When applied to a person, it implies:
・Skillful in dealing with anyone
・Highly attentive and considerate
・Able to maintain harmony without disrupting the atmosphere
■The Origin of “八面玲瓏(hachimenreiro)”
In classical Chinese literature, the term originally described
how gemstones, polished into multifaceted shapes,
emit light from every angle.
Metaphorically, it came to be used
to describe individuals whose character and conduct are so well-rounded
that no flaws are apparent in their interpersonal relationships.
