Proverb / Kotowaza
足元から鳥が立つ
An unexpected event occurs suddenly in a familiar place, or one suddenly decides to take action.
A bird flies up from right at one's feet
Quick Answer
An unexpected event occurs suddenly in a familiar place, or one suddenly decides to take action.
- Literal Image
- A bird flies up from right at one's feet
- How to Use It
- Used when a sudden change or event happens nearby, such as a close friend or colleague making a surprising announcement, or when someone starts a new endeavor out of the blue.
Meaning
This expression describes a situation where something completely unexpected happens in a familiar environment or close to oneself. It can also refer to someone suddenly making a decision and taking immediate action without prior notice. The imagery comes from the surprise of a bird unexpectedly taking flight from the grass right at your feet.
Literal Image
A bird flies up from right at one's feet
How to Use It
Used when a sudden change or event happens nearby, such as a close friend or colleague making a surprising announcement, or when someone starts a new endeavor out of the blue.
Examples
長年一緒に働いた同僚が突然退職を申し出てきた。「足元から鳥が立つ」とはこのことだ
A colleague I had worked with for many years suddenly announced their resignation. This is exactly what they mean by 'a bird flying up from your feet'.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Uses simple kanji for 'feet', 'bird', and 'stand', but the idiomatic meaning as a metaphor for surprise is more advanced.
足元
あしもと / ashimoto
at one's feet; immediate vicinity
鳥
とり / tori
bird
立つ
たつ / tatsu
to stand; to take flight (in this context)
Usage Profile
Usage note: This describes being caught off guard; ensure the context implies suddenness.
Misread Risk
It is not used for any flight of a bird, but specifically for the surprise caused by one taking off from right beside you.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
The proverb originates from the image of a bird that was thought to be quietly staying at one's feet suddenly and unexpectedly taking flight. This serves as a metaphor for unexpected events occurring in familiar surroundings or for things suddenly starting to move from a place where they were thought to be still.
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Source Note
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