Proverb / Kotowaza
色気より食い気
Preferring the satisfaction of one's appetite over romantic or sexual interests.
Appetite over sex appeal
Quick Answer
Preferring the satisfaction of one's appetite over romantic or sexual interests.
- Literal Image
- Appetite over sex appeal
- Closest Equivalent
- Appetite comes before love.
- How to Use It
- Used to describe someone who cares more about eating than dating or maintaining an attractive appearance. It carries a humorous or slightly critical tone regarding someone's preoccupation with food.
Meaning
This expression describes a state where the desire for food is stronger than interest in romance or physical attraction. It refers to situations where someone prioritizes practical, physical needs or material benefits over romantic atmosphere or superficial feelings.
Literal Image
Appetite over sex appeal
Equivalent Proverbs
Appetite comes before love.
How to Use It
Used to describe someone who cares more about eating than dating or maintaining an attractive appearance. It carries a humorous or slightly critical tone regarding someone's preoccupation with food.
Tone
Informal and humorous; can be used to tease someone about their gluttony.
Examples
彼女はデートより食事を楽しむことの方が大切らしく、まさに色気より食い気だ。
It seems she cares more about enjoying the meal than the date itself; she really prioritizes appetite over romance.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
While the 'A yori B' grammar is simple, the nouns iroke and kuike involve more specific kanji and vocabulary readings.
色気
いろけ / iroke
sex appeal; romance; colored air
食い気
くいけ / kuike
appetite; desire for food
より
yori
more than; rather than
Usage Profile
Usage note: Can sound insensitive if used to dismiss someone's genuine romantic efforts.
Misread Risk
Do not assume it refers to professional profit; it specifically highlights the preference for eating over romantic attraction.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
This proverb compares the basic human instincts of appetite and sexual desire, humorously noting when the drive for food takes precedence.
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.