聞くは一時の恥、聞かぬは一生の恥
kiku wa ittoki no haji, kikanu wa isshou no haji
Asking is momentary shame, not asking is lifelong shame
Meaning
It's better to ask and learn than to remain ignorant.
Cultural Background
Reflects the importance of humility in learning. Similar values exist in Chinese and Korean cultures regarding the teacher-student bond.
Use it to break the ice
If you are struggling in a meeting, say this to show you are serious about learning.
Meaning
It's better to ask and learn than to remain ignorant.
Use it to break the ice
If you are struggling in a meeting, say this to show you are serious about learning.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb.
聞くは一時の恥、聞かぬは一生の_____。
The proverb is '聞くは一時の恥、聞かぬは一生の恥'.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercises聞くは一時の恥、聞かぬは一生の_____。
The proverb is '聞くは一時の恥、聞かぬは一生の恥'.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsUse it carefully. It's better to say 'I want to learn, so please let me ask'.
Related Phrases
習うより慣れろ
similarLearn by doing.
下手な鉄砲も数撃ちゃ当たる
similarEven a bad shot will hit if they shoot enough.
