A1 Idiom Neutral

足元を見る

ashimoto o miru

Take advantage (of weakness)

Meaning

To exploit someone's weak point or difficult situation.

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Cultural Background

In Japanese business, long-term relationships are valued. Using this phrase is a serious accusation of bad faith. Similar to 'price gouging' in Western markets, but carries more personal weight in Japan.

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Passive Voice

Use the passive form '足元を見られる' to talk about your own experience of being exploited.

Meaning

To exploit someone's weak point or difficult situation.

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Passive Voice

Use the passive form '足元を見られる' to talk about your own experience of being exploited.

Test Yourself

Which situation best fits '足元を見る'?

A) Helping a friend. B) Raising prices because the buyer is desperate. C) Walking carefully.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: B

It is about exploitation, not help or physical caution.

🎉 Score: /1

Visual Learning Aids

Practice Bank

1 exercises
Which situation best fits '足元を見る'? Choose A1

A) Helping a friend. B) Raising prices because the buyer is desperate. C) Walking carefully.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: B

It is about exploitation, not help or physical caution.

🎉 Score: /1

Frequently Asked Questions

1 questions

Yes, it is a strong accusation of unethical behavior.

Related Phrases

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弱みに付け込む

synonym

To exploit a weakness

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