そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで
そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで in 30 Sekunden
- A powerful Japanese phrase used to encourage resilience and stoicism during difficult times by advising against showing tears.
- Commonly found in J-Pop lyrics and anime, it emphasizes inner strength and the preservation of dignity in the face of adversity.
- Grammatically features the 'Kesshite...nai' (never) structure and the emphatic 'datte' (even), making it a high-impact emotional statement.
- Reflects the cultural concept of 'Gaman,' where enduring hardship without outward complaint is seen as a sign of mature character.
The phrase 「そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで」 (Sō na toki datte kesshite namida wa misenaide) is a powerful, emotionally resonant expression that translates to "Even at times like that, please never show your tears." It is a quintessential example of the Japanese ethos of resilience, often referred to as gaman (endurance) or fudōshin (immovable mind). This phrase is not merely a request for someone to stop crying; it is a deep, often poetic exhortation to maintain one's dignity, strength, and composure in the face of overwhelming adversity, heartbreak, or failure. It suggests that while the internal pain is acknowledged, the external manifestation of that pain—tears—should be withheld as a testament to one's inner fortitude.
- The Nuance of 'Sō na Toki'
- This part refers to 'such times' or 'times like those.' In context, it usually points to moments of extreme hardship, such as a devastating loss, a public failure, or a moment of profound loneliness. It acknowledges that the situation is indeed difficult enough to warrant tears.
- The Role of 'Kesshite'
- The adverb 'kesshite' (never/by no means) is always paired with a negative verb form. It adds a layer of absolute determination. It transforms a simple 'don't cry' into a solemn vow or a critical piece of advice that brooks no exceptions.
"たとえ一人ぼっちで寂しくても、そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで。君の強さを信じているから。" (Even if you are all alone and lonely, never show your tears at such times. Because I believe in your strength.)
In Japanese society, the act of showing tears, especially in public or professional settings, has historically been viewed with a complex mix of sympathy and a sense of 'losing' to one's emotions. This phrase is frequently found in J-Pop lyrics, anime theme songs, and dramatic scripts where a character is being encouraged to stay strong. It serves as a linguistic 'shoulder to lean on,' providing a stern yet supportive push forward. The use of 'misenaide' (the negative request form) instead of 'nakanaide' (don't cry) is crucial; it focuses on the *display* of emotion to others, emphasizing the preservation of a strong public face (tatemae) or personal pride.
"ライバルに負けた悔しさはわかる。でも、そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで。次は必ず勝てる。" (I understand the frustration of losing to a rival. But even then, never show your tears. You can definitely win next time.)
When using this phrase, the speaker is usually in a position of mentorship, deep friendship, or is a narrator speaking to the audience. It is not a phrase used lightly or in casual, everyday conversation about minor inconveniences. It is reserved for the 'big moments' of life where character is tested. The inclusion of the particle 'wa' after 'namida' (tears) acts as a topic marker that provides emphasis: "As for tears, don't show them," implying that while you can show frustration or anger, the vulnerability of tears should be guarded.
Using 「そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで」 correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical components and the specific emotional weight each part carries. It is a complete sentence in itself, but it can also be integrated into larger narratives or dialogues to provide a climactic moment of encouragement.
- Grammatical Breakdown
- 1. そうな時 (Sō na toki): 'Sō na' is an adjectival noun meaning 'like that.' 'Toki' means 'time.' Together: 'Times like that.'
2. だって (Datte): A particle meaning 'even' or 'also,' used here for emphasis.
3. 決して (Kesshite): An adverb meaning 'never,' used with negative verbs.
4. 涙 (Namida): Tears.
5. は (Wa): Emphasis particle.
6. 見せないで (Misenaide): Negative imperative (request) of 'miseru' (to show).
"夢が破れて、世界が真っ暗に見えるかもしれない。けれど、そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで。" (Your dreams might be shattered, and the world might look pitch black. However, even at such times, never show your tears.)
One of the most common ways to use this is after describing a hypothetical or actual dire situation. The phrase acts as a 'moral of the story' or a guiding principle. For example, in a sports context, a coach might say this to a team after a hard loss to remind them that their journey isn't over and they must maintain their fighting spirit. In a romantic context, it might be said by someone leaving, telling their partner to stay strong despite the parting.
"仕事で大きなミスをして上司に叱られた。本当に辛いけれど、プロとして、そうな時だって決して涙は見せないでいたい。" (I made a big mistake at work and was scolded by my boss. It's really hard, but as a professional, I want to not show my tears even at such times.)
In the example above, notice how the speaker adds 'itai' (want to be) at the end to turn the advice into a personal goal. This demonstrates the flexibility of the phrase. You can also replace 'namida' with other nouns like 'yowane' (complaints/weakness) to say 'never show weakness.' However, the 'namida' version remains the most iconic and evocative. When writing, ensure the 'kesshite' and 'naide' are present to maintain the 'never' nuance, as 'kesshite' cannot be used with positive verbs like 'misete' (show).
You are most likely to encounter 「そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで」 in the world of Japanese entertainment and literature. It is a staple of the 'Cheering Song' (Ouen-ka) genre in J-Pop, where artists provide lyrical support to listeners facing life's hurdles. It captures a specific aesthetic of 'beautiful struggle' that is very popular in Japanese media.
- J-Pop and Anime Lyrics
- Lyrics often use this phrase to create a sense of intimacy between the singer and the listener. It feels like a secret promise. Famous artists from the 90s and 2000s, such as ZARD or Globe, frequently used similar stoic imagery to inspire their fans. In anime, particularly Shonen (boys') anime, this phrase might appear in a theme song or during a pivotal scene where a mentor encourages a protagonist to overcome a setback.
- Dramas and Movies
- In Japanese 'TV Shousetsu' (morning dramas) or sports movies, you will hear variations of this phrase. It is often spoken by a parent to a child or a teacher to a student. It emphasizes the importance of 'Kao ni dasanai' (not letting it show on your face), which is a valued trait in many traditional Japanese social contexts.
"アニメの主人公が修行中に師匠から言われた言葉:『そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで。それが本当の武士だ。』" (Words a mentor said to an anime protagonist during training: 'Even at such times, never show your tears. That is what a true warrior does.')
Beyond media, you might hear this in a high-stakes professional environment, though usually in a more softened form. A senior colleague might use it to encourage a junior who just failed a presentation, though they might use more formal grammar like 'misenaide kudasai.' However, the core sentiment remains: 'Maintain your composure, for your own sake and the sake of those around you.'
In social media, you might see this phrase used as a caption for a photo of someone looking determined or working hard late at night. It serves as a self-mantra, a way for the user to tell their followers (and themselves) that they are staying strong despite the challenges they face. It is a very 'Instagrammable' sentiment in Japan, often accompanied by hashtags like #努力 (effort) or #負けない (won't lose).
For English speakers, the phrase 「そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで」 contains several grammatical and cultural traps. Understanding these common pitfalls will help you use the phrase more naturally and avoid sounding awkward or unintentionally rude.
- 1. Misusing 'Kesshite' with Positive Verbs
- A common error is trying to use 'kesshite' to mean 'always' or 'definitely' with a positive verb. In Japanese, 'kesshite' MUST be followed by a negative verb form (nai, masen, naide). For example, saying 'Kesshite namida o misete' (Never show tears - using positive 'show') is grammatically incorrect and confusing. It must be 'misenaide'.
- 2. Overusing 'Datte' in Formal Contexts
- While 'datte' is very expressive, it is relatively informal. In a very formal business setting or when speaking to a high-ranking superior, 'demo' or 'de atte mo' would be more appropriate. Using 'datte' can make the advice sound a bit too 'anime-like' or overly familiar if you aren't close to the person.
❌ Incorrect: そうな時だって決して涙を見せて。
✅ Correct: そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで。
Another mistake is the confusion between 'nakanaide' (don't cry) and 'misenaide' (don't show). While they are related, 'misenaide' is specifically about the *display* of tears. If you tell someone 'nakanaide,' you are telling them to stop the emotional process of crying. If you tell them 'namida wa misenaide,' you are telling them to keep their composure in front of others. Using the wrong one can change the nuance from 'be strong' to 'stop being sad.'
Finally, learners often forget the 'na' in 'sō na toki.' Since 'sō' is acting as an adjectival noun (na-adjective) here, the 'na' is required to link it to 'toki' (time). Saying 'sō toki' is a common beginner mistake. Always remember the 'na' to ensure the sentence flows correctly and sounds natural to a native ear.
If you want to express the idea of staying strong or not crying, but 「そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで」 feels too long or too dramatic, there are several alternatives you can use depending on the situation and the level of formality.
- 泣かないで (Nakanaide)
- This is the most direct and common way to say 'don't cry.' It is simpler and can be used in almost any casual situation. It focuses on the act of crying itself rather than the 'showing' of tears. It is more comforting and less 'stoic' than our main phrase.
- 弱音を吐かないで (Yowane o hakanaide)
- This means 'don't whine' or 'don't utter words of weakness.' It is a common alternative when you want to encourage someone to stay mentally tough and not complain about their hardships. It's often used in sports or work contexts.
- 毅然とした態度で (Kizen to shita taido de)
- This is a more formal, academic expression meaning 'with a resolute attitude.' It doesn't mention tears specifically but implies the same level of composure and strength. You might see this in news reports or formal speeches.
Comparison:
1. 泣かないで (Gentle comfort)
2. 涙は見せないで (Stoic encouragement)
3. 弱音を吐くな (Tough love/command)
Another poetic alternative is 「涙をこらえて」 (Namida o koraete), which means 'enduring/holding back the tears.' This is often used to describe someone's state of being rather than giving them advice. It paints a picture of someone who is struggling but successfully keeping their emotions in check. If you want to be very casual, you might just say 「しっかりして!」 (Shikkari shite!), which means 'get a hold of yourself!' or 'stay strong!'
Finally, in a literary sense, you might see 「不屈の精神」 (Fukutsu no seishin), meaning 'indomitable spirit.' While not a direct replacement for the phrase, it describes the quality that someone who 'never shows tears at such times' possesses. Understanding these variations allows you to navigate the complex emotional landscape of Japanese communication with much greater precision.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
In old Japanese poetry (Waka), tears were often compared to dew or rain, but the modern stoic 'don't show tears' sentiment became more prominent with the rise of Samurai ethics (Bushido).
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing 'kesshite' as 'keshite' (forgetting the double 's' stop).
- Misplacing the pitch accent on 'namida' (it should be low-high-low).
- Saying 'misenaide' with an English 'r' sound if 'r' were present (ensure 'd' is a light tap).
- Running 'so na' together too quickly.
- Forgetting the nasal 'n' in 'misenaide'.
Schwierigkeitsgrad
Requires knowledge of basic Kanji (時, 涙, 見) and the 'na-adjective' connection.
The 'Kesshite...nai' pairing is a key B1 grammar point that takes practice.
The rhythm is long but follows standard Japanese cadence.
Common in media, making it easier to recognize with exposure.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Kesshite + Negative Verb
決して諦めない。
Noun + Toki (When/Time)
子供の時、よく遊んだ。
Na-Adjective + Na + Toki
暇な時、本を読む。
Particle 'Datte' for Emphasis
私だって知っている。
Negative Request 'Naide'
行かないで。
Beispiele nach Niveau
なみだをふいてください。
Please wipe your tears.
Uses basic 'kudasai' for a request.
かなしいとき、なきます。
When I am sad, I cry.
Basic 'toki' (when) structure.
なみだはきれいです。
Tears are beautiful.
Simple A is B sentence.
あめがふるとき、そとはくらいです。
When it rains, it is dark outside.
Using 'toki' with a verb.
なかないでください。
Please don't cry.
Negative request 'naide kudasai'.
そうなとき、どうしますか?
What do you do at such times?
Basic use of 'sō na toki'.
ともだちに、はなをみせます。
I show flowers to my friend.
Basic verb 'miseru' (to show).
けっしてわすれません。
I will never forget.
Introduction to 'kesshite' with negative.
辛い時でも、笑ってください。
Even when it's hard, please smile.
Using 'demo' for 'even'.
そうな時は、私に電話して。
At times like that, call me.
Casual request 'te' form.
決して嘘はつかないでください。
Please never tell a lie.
Kesshite + negative request.
涙が出てきました。
Tears started to come out.
Verb 'tekuru' showing change.
大切なものを見せないで。
Don't show your important things.
Negative request 'naide'.
子供だって、分かります。
Even a child understands.
Using 'datte' for 'even'.
悲しい時は、音楽を聴きます。
When I'm sad, I listen to music.
Toki + main clause.
決して諦めないでください。
Please never give up.
Standard encouraging phrase.
そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで、前を向こう。
Even at such times, never show your tears and look forward.
The target phrase combined with 'volitional' form.
失敗したって、決して恥ずかしくないよ。
Even if you fail, it's never shameful.
Using 'tatte' (even if).
彼女は辛い時だって、いつも笑顔を絶やさない。
Even when it's hard, she never stops smiling.
Describing a habit/characteristic.
決して一人で悩まないで、相談してください。
Never worry alone; please consult someone.
Kesshite + negative request + advice.
そうな時こそ、本当の強さが試されるんだ。
It is precisely at such times that true strength is tested.
Using 'koso' for emphasis.
涙は見せないと決めたんだ。
I decided not to show my tears.
Verb 'to kimeta' (decided to).
どんなに苦しくたって、決して逃げたりしない。
No matter how painful it is, I will never run away.
Kesshite + tari shinai (never do things like...).
そうな時だって、君の味方は必ずいるよ。
Even at such times, there is always someone on your side.
Using 'datte' for emphasis on the situation.
逆境に立たされたそうな時だって、決して涙は見せないで毅然としていなさい。
Even when you are in a situation of adversity, never show your tears and remain resolute.
Using 'nasai' for a firm command.
プロの舞台では、そうな時だって決して涙は見せないのが鉄則だ。
On the professional stage, it is an ironclad rule never to show tears even at such times.
Using 'no ga tessoku da' (is an ironclad rule).
決して感情に流されず、冷静な判断を下すべきだ。
You should never be swept away by emotions and should make a calm judgment.
Using 'beki da' (should).
そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで、という歌詞に救われた。
I was saved by the lyrics 'Even at such times, never show your tears.'
Quoting a phrase with 'to iu'.
彼はどんな窮地に陥っても、決して弱音を吐かなかった。
No matter what predicament he fell into, he never uttered a word of weakness.
Using 'kyūchi' (predicament) and 'yowane'.
涙は見せないで、と自分に言い聞かせた。
I told myself, 'Don't show your tears.'
Using 'ii-kikaseru' (to tell oneself).
そうな時だって決して涙は見せない、それが彼の美学だ。
Never showing tears even at such times—that is his aesthetic.
Using 'bigaku' (aesthetic/philosophy).
決して後悔しないように、今できる最善を尽くそう。
Let's do our best now so that we never regret it.
Using 'yō ni' for purpose.
絶望の淵に立たされたそうな時だって、決して涙は見せないで誇り高くあれ。
Even when standing on the brink of despair, never show your tears and be proud.
Using 'are' (imperative of 'aru') for a literary command.
日本人の精神性には、そうな時だって決して涙は見せないという美徳が深く根付いている。
In the Japanese psyche, the virtue of never showing tears even at such times is deeply rooted.
Using 'seishinsei' (psyche/spirituality).
決して屈することのない意志の強さが、その瞳に宿っていた。
A strength of will that would never yield dwelt in those eyes.
Using 'kussuru koto no nai' (never yielding).
そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで、と励ますのは酷な場合もある。
There are cases where encouraging someone by saying 'never show your tears even then' can be cruel.
Using 'koku na' (cruel/harsh).
彼は悲劇の最中にあっても、決して取り乱すことはなかった。
Even in the midst of tragedy, he never lost his composure.
Using 'torimidasu' (to lose composure).
涙は見せないで、という言葉の裏には、深い悲しみが隠されている。
Behind the words 'don't show your tears' lies a hidden, deep sadness.
Using 'ura ni wa' (behind/underneath).
決して色褪せることのない思い出を胸に、彼は旅立った。
With memories that would never fade in his heart, he set out on a journey.
Using 'iroaseru koto no nai' (never fading).
そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで、という教えを忠実に守った。
He faithfully followed the teaching to never show his tears even at such times.
Using 'chūjitsu ni' (faithfully).
存亡の機に瀕したそうな時だって、決して涙は見せないで泰然自若としていられるか。
Can you remain calm and composed even when faced with a moment of life or death?
Using 'taizen jijaku' (calm and composed).
「そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで」というフレーズは、戦後の復興期における日本人の不屈の精神を象徴しているかのようだ。
The phrase 'never show your tears even then' seems to symbolize the indomitable spirit of the Japanese during the post-war reconstruction period.
Using 'shōchō shite iru' (symbolizing).
決して妥協を許さない彼の姿勢は、周囲に畏敬の念を抱かせた。
His attitude of never allowing compromise inspired a sense of awe in those around him.
Using 'ikei no nen' (sense of awe).
そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで、という美学の功罪について論じる。
Discussing the merits and demerits of the aesthetic of 'never showing tears even at such times.'
Using 'kōzai' (merits and demerits).
涙は見せないで、という抑圧が、時に心の病を引き起こす要因ともなり得る。
The suppression of 'not showing tears' can sometimes be a factor that causes mental illness.
Using 'yokupatsu' (suppression).
決して絶えることのない情熱が、彼を未踏の地へと駆り立てた。
A passion that would never die drove him to unexplored lands.
Using 'taeru koto no nai' (never-ending).
そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで、と歌う彼女の声は震えていた。
Her voice trembled as she sang, 'Even at such times, never show your tears.'
Contrasting the lyrics with the physical state.
決して一筋縄ではいかない問題に対し、彼は真っ向から立ち向かった。
He faced head-on a problem that was by no means straightforward.
Using 'hitosujinawa de wa ikanai' (not straightforward).
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— Wipe your tears; usually followed by an encouraging action.
涙を拭いて、もう一度挑戦しよう。
— I will never forget; a common vow.
君の恩は決して忘れない。
— If that happens; in that case.
そうなると、話は別だ。
— Can't stop crying.
感動して涙が止まらない。
— Don't show (it); can be used for secrets or emotions.
その手紙は誰にも見せないで。
— Always; at any time.
いつだって君を応援している。
— No matter what happens.
何があっても、決して諦めない。
— Believe in yourself.
自分を信じて、涙は見せないで。
— Take a step forward.
涙を拭いて、一歩踏み出そう。
— To decide in one's heart.
二度と涙は見せないと心に決めた。
Wird oft verwechselt mit
Means 'don't cry' (stop the action), whereas 'misenaide' means 'don't show' (hide the action).
Can mean 'don't show' anything (like a picture), not just tears.
Means 'I will never cry' (a statement about oneself), not advice to another.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— To swallow one's tears; to endure a bitter experience or regret.
悔しさに涙を呑んだ。
Literary— Even a demon has tears; even a hard-hearted person can be moved to pity.
あの厳しい先生が泣くなんて、鬼の目にも涙だ。
Common— A sparrow's tears; a very small, insignificant amount.
ボーナスが出たが、雀の涙ほどだった。
Common— No blood or tears; cold-blooded and heartless.
彼は血も涙もない人間だ。
Common— To be overwhelmed with grief; to spend days in tears.
悲しみのあまり、涙に暮れる毎日だ。
Literary— Tears streaming down one's cheeks.
静かに頬を伝う涙が印象的だった。
Poetic— To invite tears; to be tear-jerking.
その映画は観客の涙を誘った。
Common— To the extent that tears come out; extremely.
涙が出るほど嬉しい。
Casual— While crying; tearfully.
彼女は涙ながらに真実を語った。
Neutral— To turn tears into money; to profit from one's misfortune (rarely used).
彼は自分の不幸を売りにして涙を金に換えた。
CynicalLeicht verwechselbar
Often confused with 'Zettai' (Absolutely).
'Kesshite' is almost always negative. 'Zettai' can be positive or negative.
絶対勝つ (Zettai katsu - Will definitely win) vs 決して負けない (Kesshite makenai - Will never lose).
Has multiple meanings (because, but, even).
In this phrase, it means 'even.' In 'Datte, suki nan da mon,' it means 'But/Because.'
子供だって (Even a child) vs だって、忙しいんだ (But, I'm busy).
Confused with 'Sō da' (It seems).
'Sō na' is an adjective modifying a noun. 'Sō da' is a sentence ending.
そうな時 (Such a time) vs 雨が降りそうだ (It seems it will rain).
Confused with 'Miru' (To see).
'Miseru' is 'to show' (causative-like), 'Miru' is 'to see'.
写真を見せる (Show a photo) vs 写真を見る (See a photo).
Confused with 'Nada' (rare reading).
'Namida' is the standard reading. 'Nada' is used in specific place names or dialects.
涙を流す (Shed tears).
Satzmuster
そうな時だって決して[Noun]は見せないで。
そうな時だって決して弱音は見せないで。
[Adjective]時だって決して涙は見せないで。
悲しい時だって決して涙は見せないで。
そうな時だって決して涙は見せないのが[Noun]だ。
そうな時だって決して涙は見せないのがプロだ。
決して[Verb-nai]で。
決して忘れないで。
[Noun]の時だって〜。
テストの時だって落ち着いて。
そうな時[Particle]〜。
そうな時こそ笑おう。
決して[Verb-nai]ことのないように。
決して後悔することのないように。
涙は見せないと[Verb]。
涙は見せないと誓った。
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Adjektive
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
Common in media and literature; rare in casual daily conversation.
-
決して涙を見せてください
→
決して涙は見せないでください
'Kesshite' cannot be used with a positive request like 'misete'.
-
そう時だって
→
そうな時だって
'Sō' needs 'na' to modify the noun 'toki'.
-
涙をみせないで
→
涙は見せないで
While 'o' is okay, 'wa' is much more natural and common in this specific idiomatic phrase.
-
そうな時だって決して泣いて
→
そうな時だって決して泣かないで
Again, 'kesshite' requires the negative 'nakanaide'.
-
そうな時だって決して涙は見せない
→
そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで
Without 'de', it's a statement ('I never show'). With 'de', it's a request/advice ('Please don't show').
Tipps
The Kesshite Rule
Always remember that 'Kesshite' is a magnet for negative verbs. If you use it, the sentence must end in 'nai', 'masen', or 'naide'.
Embrace Gaman
Understanding this phrase helps you understand 'Gaman'. It's not about not feeling; it's about the strength of not showing the struggle to the world.
Rhythm Matters
Japanese is a mora-timed language. Give each syllable (so-u-na-to-ki-da-t-te) equal time for a natural sound.
Toki vs Jikan
'Toki' is a point in time or an occasion. 'Jikan' is a duration. Use 'toki' for this phrase.
Kanji Choice
Always use the Kanji for 'Toki' (時) and 'Namida' (涙). 'Kesshite' is usually written in Hiragana (決して), but the Kanji is also common.
Use with Care
This is a 'high-energy' phrase. Use it when you really want to inspire someone, not for small problems.
Lyric Hunting
Search for '涙は見せない' on music sites to find dozens of songs that use this sentiment. It's great listening practice!
Emotional Tone
When saying this, try to sound like a supportive older brother or sister. Firm but kind.
Datte vs Demo
'Datte' is more colloquial and emotional than 'demo'. It's perfect for lyrics and close friends.
The Power of 'Wa'
Using 'wa' instead of 'o' makes the tears the 'star' of the sentence. It's a small change that adds a lot of flavor.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Imagine a 'SO-na' (Sofa) in a 'TOKI' (Time) machine. 'DATTE' (That) machine 'KESSHITE' (Kicked) your 'NAMIDA' (Tears) away so you 'MISENAIDE' (Missed showing) them.
Visuelle Assoziation
Picture a person standing in the rain. The rain represents 'such times' (sō na toki), but they are wearing a mask of a smile, hiding the tears underneath.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to say the phrase three times fast while maintaining a perfectly serious, unmoving facial expression.
Wortherkunft
The phrase is a combination of standard Japanese grammatical structures that evolved during the Edo period into the modern form. 'Kesshite' originally meant 'to decide' or 'to determine,' which is why it carries such strong weight today.
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The original sense of 'kesshite' was 'with a determined mind,' which naturally led to its use as an absolute negative adverb.
Japonic -> Old Japanese -> Middle Japanese -> Modern Japanese.Kultureller Kontext
Be careful using this with someone who is genuinely grieving or suffering from depression, as it might come across as dismissive of their pain.
In Western cultures, 'showing vulnerability' is often seen as a strength in modern psychology (e.g., Brené Brown). This phrase might seem 'repressive' to some English speakers, but in Japanese, it is intended as a form of empowerment.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Sports
- 負けても涙は見せない。
- 次は勝つ。
- 練習あるのみ。
- チームのために。
Music Lyrics
- 君に贈る歌。
- 空を見上げて。
- 夢を追いかけて。
- 一人じゃない。
Work/Professional
- プロ失格だ。
- 冷静になれ。
- ミスを挽回する。
- 感情を出すな。
Parting/Goodbyes
- 笑顔でさよなら。
- 元気でね。
- また会える日まで。
- 寂しくないよ。
Encouraging a Friend
- 君ならできる。
- 応援してるよ。
- 無理しないで。
- いつでも話を聞くよ。
Gesprächseinstiege
"「そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで」という歌詞、どう思う?"
"辛い時、君は涙を見せるタイプ?それとも我慢するタイプ?"
"日本のアニメで、このフレーズを聞いたことある?"
"仕事で泣きそうになった時、どうやって堪える?"
"「涙は見せない」という美学は、今の時代にも合っていると思う?"
Tagebuch-Impulse
Describe a time when you had to follow the advice 'never show your tears.' How did it feel?
Write a short story about a character who never shows tears, even in 'sō na toki.'
Compare the Japanese 'gaman' culture with your own culture's view on crying.
If you were writing a song to encourage someone, would you use this phrase? Why or why not?
Reflect on a situation where showing tears actually helped you more than hiding them.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenIt is generally too informal and dramatic for a boss. Use '涙は見せないようにいたします' (I will make sure not to show tears) if you are talking about yourself, or avoid the topic entirely.
Yes, in standard modern Japanese, 'kesshite' must be followed by a negative verb or adjective. Using it with a positive word is a common learner mistake.
'Wa' makes 'tears' the topic and adds emphasis, often implying 'as for tears (don't show them, though you might feel other things).' 'O' is a simple object marker and is less poetic.
It is gender-neutral. Both men and women use it in songs and stories to encourage others.
Yes, it is okay, but there is a strong cultural preference for 'TPO' (Time, Place, Occasion). Crying in public or at work is often avoided to maintain harmony and professional appearance.
'Datte' adds the nuance of 'even.' It suggests that the situation is so extreme that one might naturally want to cry, but 'even' then, they shouldn't.
Yes, that means 'Never cry.' It is grammatically correct but slightly less common in the 'stoic advice' context than 'namida wa misenaide'.
It doesn't have one specific origin but is a common trope in Japanese 'Ouen-ka' (cheering songs) and dramatic writing.
Yes, 'sō' acts as a na-adjective here, which is why it requires 'na' before the noun 'toki'.
You can say '弱音は見せないで' (Yowane wa misenaide) or '弱さは見せないで' (Yowasa wa misenaide).
Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen
Translate to Japanese: 'Even at such times, never show your tears.'
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Write a sentence using 'Kesshite' and 'Misenaide'.
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Translate to English: '辛い時だって決して諦めないで。'
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Write the Kanji for 'Namida'.
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Write the Kanji for 'Toki'.
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Complete the phrase: 'そうな時だって決して____は見せないで。'
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Translate: 'Don't show your tears to anyone.'
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Use 'Datte' in a sentence meaning 'Even a child'.
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Translate: 'I decided not to cry.'
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Write 'Please don't show' in polite Japanese.
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Translate: 'Such a time is difficult.'
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Write a short encouraging message to a friend using the phrase.
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Translate: 'Never forget this moment.'
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Write the Hiragana for 決して.
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Translate: 'He never showed his tears.'
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Use 'Sō na toki' in a sentence about failing a test.
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Translate: 'Hold back your tears.'
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Write 'Never' in Japanese.
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Translate: 'Even if it's lonely.'
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Complete: 'そうな時だって決して____は見せないで' (Weakness).
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Pronounce: そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで。
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
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Say 'Never give up' in Japanese.
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Say 'Don't cry' politely.
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Emphasize 'Kesshite' in the phrase.
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Say 'Tears' in Japanese.
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Say 'Even me' in Japanese.
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Practice the pitch accent of 'Namida' (Low-High-Low).
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Du hast gesagt:
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Say 'Such a time' in Japanese.
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Du hast gesagt:
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Say 'Don't show' in Japanese.
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Record yourself saying the phrase with an encouraging tone.
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Say 'I will never forget' in Japanese.
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Say 'Stay strong' in casual Japanese.
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Say 'Even at times like that' in Japanese.
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Say 'Never show weakness' in Japanese.
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Du hast gesagt:
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Say 'Wipe your tears' in Japanese.
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Say 'Look forward' in Japanese.
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Say 'Believe in yourself' in Japanese.
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Say 'It's okay' in Japanese.
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Say 'One more time' in Japanese.
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Say 'Don't lose' in Japanese.
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Listen to the phrase: 'そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで'. What is the 5th word?
Does the speaker sound happy or serious?
How many times do you hear 'te' or 'de' sounds?
Identify the word for 'never'.
Identify the word for 'tears'.
Is the verb positive or negative?
What particle follows 'Toki'?
What is the last sound of the sentence?
Does the speaker emphasize 'Kesshite'?
Identify the word for 'time'.
What is the first word?
Is there a 'wa' particle in the sentence?
What is the meaning of the heard phrase?
How many morae are in 'Namida'?
How many morae are in 'Kesshite'?
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The phrase 'そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで' is more than just 'don't cry'; it's a call to arms for the spirit. Use it to inspire someone to stay strong when they are at their lowest point. Example: '夢を諦めそうになった。でも、そうな時だって決して涙は見せないで頑張り抜くと決めた。' (I almost gave up on my dream. But I decided to push through and never show tears, even then.)
- A powerful Japanese phrase used to encourage resilience and stoicism during difficult times by advising against showing tears.
- Commonly found in J-Pop lyrics and anime, it emphasizes inner strength and the preservation of dignity in the face of adversity.
- Grammatically features the 'Kesshite...nai' (never) structure and the emphatic 'datte' (even), making it a high-impact emotional statement.
- Reflects the cultural concept of 'Gaman,' where enduring hardship without outward complaint is seen as a sign of mature character.
The Kesshite Rule
Always remember that 'Kesshite' is a magnet for negative verbs. If you use it, the sentence must end in 'nai', 'masen', or 'naide'.
Embrace Gaman
Understanding this phrase helps you understand 'Gaman'. It's not about not feeling; it's about the strength of not showing the struggle to the world.
Rhythm Matters
Japanese is a mora-timed language. Give each syllable (so-u-na-to-ki-da-t-te) equal time for a natural sound.
Toki vs Jikan
'Toki' is a point in time or an occasion. 'Jikan' is a duration. Use 'toki' for this phrase.