Proverb / Kotowaza
風声鶴唳
To be terrified by even the slightest sound or sign of something.
the sound of the wind and the cry of a crane
Quick Answer
To be terrified by even the slightest sound or sign of something.
- Literal Image
- the sound of the wind and the cry of a crane
- How to Use It
- Used to describe people in a state of extreme anxiety, panic, or paranoia, after a major defeat or scandal.
Meaning
This expression describes a state of extreme fear or paranoia where one becomes hypersensitive to their surroundings. It specifically refers to being so frightened that natural sounds, like the wind or birds, are mistaken for approaching danger or enemies.
Literal Image
the sound of the wind and the cry of a crane
How to Use It
Used to describe people in a state of extreme anxiety, panic, or paranoia, after a major defeat or scandal.
Tone
Literary and descriptive of a psychological state of fear.
Examples
風声鶴唳に怯える敗残兵のように、些細なことにも過剰に反応してしまう。
Like a defeated soldier terrified by the sound of the wind and the cry of a crane, I react excessively to even the smallest things.
不祥事発覚後の社内は風声鶴唳の状態で、誰もが疑心暗鬼に陥っていた。
After the scandal was revealed, the office was in a state of extreme paranoia, and everyone fell into deep suspicion.
風声鶴唳の日々が続き、心身ともに疲弊してしまった。
Days of constant fear and hypersensitivity continued, leaving me physically and mentally exhausted.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
This is a four-character compound (yojijukugo) using literary kanji and a classical Chinese origin, making it difficult for standard learners.
風声
ふうせい / fuusei
sound of the wind
鶴唳
かくれい / kakurei
cry of a crane
怯える
おびえる / obieru
to be frightened
Usage Profile
Usage note: This term implies a lack of composure or extreme paranoia, so use it carefully when describing others' reactions.
Misread Risk
It is not used for simple caution; it specifically describes 'extreme' or 'excessive' fear where natural sounds are mistaken for threats.
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Origin
This expression originates from the Book of Jin (Jin Shu). When Fu Jian of Former Qin was defeated in battle against Eastern Jin, he fled and supposedly mistook the sound of the wind and the cries of cranes for the sounds of pursuing enemy troops. This story led to the phrase being used to describe someone terrified by even the smallest sound.
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Source Note
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