Proverb / Kotowaza
下駄を預ける
Entrusting the processing or judgment of a matter entirely to someone else.
To entrust one's geta (wooden clogs) to someone else
Quick Answer
Entrusting the processing or judgment of a matter entirely to someone else.
- Literal Image
- To entrust one's geta (wooden clogs) to someone else
- How to Use It
- Used when someone decides to let another person take charge of a task or decision, because they trust that person or are unable to handle the matter themselves.
Meaning
To hand over full responsibility and decision-making power to another person. By doing so, one relies on that person's judgment and follows their lead regarding the outcome of a situation.
Literal Image
To entrust one's geta (wooden clogs) to someone else
How to Use It
Used when someone decides to let another person take charge of a task or decision, because they trust that person or are unable to handle the matter themselves.
Tone
This expression is neutral but can carry a nuance of dependence or relief.
Examples
この件に関しては、プロジェクトリーダーに下駄を預けることにした。
Regarding this matter, I decided to leave everything to the project leader.
自分一人では抱えきれず、結局先輩に下駄を預けてしまった。
I couldn't handle it on my own, so in the end, I left it all to my senior.
信頼している相手だからこそ、思い切って下駄を預ける。
Because they are someone I trust, I will take the plunge and entrust the decision to them.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The vocabulary itself is simple, but the meaning is purely idiomatic and relies on an understanding of the cultural significance of footwear in the past.
下駄
げた / geta
traditional wooden clogs
預ける
あずける / azukeru
to entrust or leave something in someone's care
Usage Profile
Usage note: While it can mean trust, in some contexts it might imply that the speaker is avoiding their own responsibility.
Misread Risk
Avoid taking this literally as handing over physical shoes; it is a metaphor for delegating authority and the power to act.
Search As
Related Proverbs
Origin
The expression comes from the idea that if you hand over your footwear (geta) to someone else, you cannot move a single step on your own. This leaves you in a position where you have no choice but to follow and rely on the person holding your shoes.
Index
Topics, Situations, and Tags
Topics
Situations
Tags
Source Note
Where did this entry get its data from? The reference links are listed below. To understand how to read this section, see Data Sources.