Proverb / Kotowaza
蛙の面に水
To remain completely unfazed and show no reaction no matter what is said or done to you.
water on a frog's face
Quick Answer
To remain completely unfazed and show no reaction no matter what is said or done to you.
- Literal Image
- water on a frog's face
- Closest Equivalent
- Like water off a duck's back.
- How to Use It
- Used to describe someone who ignores warnings or criticism without showing any signs of reflection or distress.
Meaning
This proverb describes a state of being completely indifferent to external actions, such as criticism, scoldings, or warnings. Just as a frog does not care if water is splashed on its face, a person described by this phrase shows no sign of taking things to heart or changing their behavior.
Literal Image
water on a frog's face
Equivalent Proverbs
Like water off a duck's back.
Uses a duck instead of a frog, but carries the exact same image of being completely unaffected by criticism.
How to Use It
Used to describe someone who ignores warnings or criticism without showing any signs of reflection or distress.
Tone
critical or exasperated, expressing frustration at someone's lack of responsiveness.
Examples
いくら注意しても蛙の面に水で、彼は同じ失敗を繰り返している。
No matter how much he is warned, it's like water on a frog's face, and he keeps repeating the same mistakes.
上司に叱られても蛙の面に水といった様子で、まったく堪えていないようだ。
Even when scolded by his boss, he is like water on a frog's face, seemingly completely unfazed.
世間から批判されても蛙の面に水のように涼しい顔をしている。
Even when criticized by the public, he keeps a cool face like water on a frog's face.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Uses simple, basic vocabulary (kaeru, mizu) to create a vivid and easily understandable image, though 'tsura' is slightly informal.
蛙
かえる / kaeru
frog
面
つら / tsura
face (can be used informally or derogatorily)
水
みず / mizu
water
Usage Profile
Usage note: Avoid using this to compliment someone for their resilience or thick skin; it carries a negative nuance of ignoring valid advice.
Misread Risk
Do not interpret this as a positive trait of mental fortitude; it specifically criticizes a lack of necessary reflection.
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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.