Proverb / Kotowaza
提灯に釣鐘
Used to describe two things that are incomparable due to a vast difference in quality, status, or weight.
A paper lantern and a temple bell
Quick Answer
Used to describe two things that are incomparable due to a vast difference in quality, status, or weight.
- Literal Image
- A paper lantern and a temple bell
- How to Use It
- Used when pointing out that a comparison or pairing is inappropriate because of a huge disparity between the two parties.
Meaning
While a paper lantern and a temple bell may share a similar rounded shape, they are completely different in weight and substance. This expression highlights an extreme imbalance where comparison is meaningless because one side far outweighs the other. It is applied to mismatched pairs in competition, business, or social standing.
Literal Image
A paper lantern and a temple bell
How to Use It
Used when pointing out that a comparison or pairing is inappropriate because of a huge disparity between the two parties.
Tone
Carries a critical or humbling nuance, suggesting a lack of balance or suitability.
Examples
あの二人では提灯に釣鐘で、とても勝負にならない。
Between those two, the difference is like a lantern and a bell; it wouldn't even be a proper match.
大企業と個人商店では提灯に釣鐘で、比較すること自体が無意味だ。
Comparing a large corporation to a small private shop is like comparing a lantern to a bell; the comparison itself is meaningless.
提灯に釣鐘のような縁談を持ちかけられても、うまくいくはずがない。
Even if a marriage proposal with such a huge disparity in status is suggested, there is no way it would work out.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The vocabulary for lantern and bell is concrete, but the idiomatic application to social disparity and comparisons requires intermediate cultural understanding.
提灯
ちょうちん / chochin
paper lantern
釣鐘
つりがね / tsurigane
temple bell
Usage Profile
Usage note: This expression specifically emphasizes an extreme imbalance; it is not for simple differences.
Misread Risk
Do not use this to mean two things are merely 'different' or 'opposite'; it focuses on the unsuitability of the pairing due to a massive gap in scale or value.
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Source Note
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