Proverb / Kotowaza
提灯持ちは先に立て
Those in a position to lead or guide others should take the initiative and act first.
Let the lantern-bearer stand at the front
Quick Answer
Those in a position to lead or guide others should take the initiative and act first.
- Literal Image
- Let the lantern-bearer stand at the front
- How to Use It
- This expression is used when advising someone in a leadership position to take the lead themselves, or when emphasizing that setting an example is more effective than just giving orders.
Meaning
This proverb teaches that leaders or guides should not simply give instructions from behind. Just as a lantern-bearer must walk in front to light the path for others, a leader must stand at the forefront and set an example through their own actions to effectively guide their subordinates.
Literal Image
Let the lantern-bearer stand at the front
How to Use It
This expression is used when advising someone in a leadership position to take the lead themselves, or when emphasizing that setting an example is more effective than just giving orders.
Tone
Advisory and instructive.
Examples
新プロジェクトを成功させたいなら、提灯持ちは先に立てで、君自身が現場に出て指揮を執るべきだ。
If you want the new project to succeed, you should be on-site leading the way yourself; as they say, let the lantern-bearer stand at the front.
上司が後ろで腕組みしているだけでは部下は動かない。提灯持ちは先に立てだよ。
Subordinates won't move if the boss just stands behind them with their arms crossed. You have to lead by example.
若手を育てたいなら、提灯持ちは先に立てで、まず自分が手本を見せることだ。
If you want to train the younger staff, you must take the initiative and show them the way yourself first.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Uses the compound 'chochinmochi' (lantern bearer) and the imperative 'tate' (stand), which requires knowledge of both specific vocabulary and grammar.
提灯
ちょうちん / chochin
paper lantern
持ち
もち / mochi
holder; bearer
先に
さきに / saki ni
ahead; in front
立て
たて / tate
stand (imperative)
Usage Profile
Usage note: The imperative 'tate' can sound quite strong, so it can be used when quoting the proverb to give advice rather than as a direct command.
Misread Risk
Do not confuse this with mere physical positioning; it is a metaphor for leadership and taking initiative.
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Origin
This proverb originates from the custom during the Edo period where a lantern-bearer would walk ahead to guide guests along dark roads at night. Since a lantern-bearer walking behind would not be able to light the path effectively, it became a lesson that those in a position to lead others should proactively step forward and act.
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