Proverb / Kotowaza
暗中模索
Trying various methods to find a solution when there are no clues or clear direction.
Groping for shapes in the darkness
Quick Answer
Trying various methods to find a solution when there are no clues or clear direction.
- Literal Image
- Groping for shapes in the darkness
- How to Use It
- Used when starting a new venture, trying to solve a difficult problem, or navigating an unknown situation where one must experiment to find the right path.
Meaning
To struggle or search for a way forward in an uncertain situation where no hints or guidance are available. It describes a process of trial and error performed in the hope of finding a breakthrough when the outcome is not yet visible.
Literal Image
Groping for shapes in the darkness
How to Use It
Used when starting a new venture, trying to solve a difficult problem, or navigating an unknown situation where one must experiment to find the right path.
Tone
A neutral idiom used in professional or serious contexts.
Examples
新事業の立ち上げは、まさに暗中模索の状態から始まった。
The launch of the new business began in a state of trial and error with no clues to follow.
解決策が見つからず、暗中模索を続けている。
Unable to find a solution, I continue to grope in the dark for an answer.
暗中模索の末、ようやく一筋の光が見えてきた。
After much trial and error in the dark, a ray of light has finally become visible.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
This is a four-character idiom (yojijukugo) using literary kanji, though the component meanings are logical.
暗中
あんちゅう / anchu
in the dark; in the darkness
模索
もさく / mosaku
groping; searching
Usage Profile
Usage note: While it describes effort, it emphasizes the lack of a clear plan or information.
Misread Risk
It is not used for literal darkness; it is a metaphor for a lack of information or direction.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
The expression refers to trying to find the shape of something in total darkness. It originates from a story in Tang Dynasty China about a man named Xu Jingzong (許敬宗) who had such a poor memory for faces that he was described as 'groping in the dark' to recognize people.
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Source Note
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