Proverb / Kotowaza
聞くは一時の恥聞かぬは一生の恥
Asking a question may be embarrassing for a moment, but remaining ignorant brings shame for a lifetime.
To ask is a momentary shame; not to ask is a lifetime shame
Quick Answer
Asking a question may be embarrassing for a moment, but remaining ignorant brings shame for a lifetime.
- Literal Image
- To ask is a momentary shame; not to ask is a lifetime shame
- How to Use It
- Used to encourage students, employees, or anyone who hesitates to ask 'basic' questions. It frames the act of asking as a wise choice that prevents future failure or ridicule.
Meaning
This proverb emphasizes that it is better to admit what you do not know and seek knowledge immediately, even if it feels embarrassing. Choosing to stay silent to protect your pride results in lifelong ignorance, which is a far greater burden and source of shame than a brief moment of inquiry.
Literal Image
To ask is a momentary shame; not to ask is a lifetime shame
How to Use It
Used to encourage students, employees, or anyone who hesitates to ask 'basic' questions. It frames the act of asking as a wise choice that prevents future failure or ridicule.
Tone
Encouraging and pragmatic, emphasizing the value of growth over short-term pride.
Examples
こんな基本的なことを聞くのは恥ずかしいかもしれないけど、聞くは一時の恥聞かぬは一生の恥だから、思い切って質問しよう。
It might be embarrassing to ask such a basic thing, but since asking is a momentary shame and not asking is a lifetime shame, let's just go ahead and ask.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
While the proverb is long, the vocabulary consists of relatively simple words and the parallel structure helps with parsing the meaning.
一時
いっとき / ittoki
a moment; a short time
一生
いっしょう / isshou
a lifetime; one's whole life
恥
はじ / haji
shame; embarrassment
Usage Profile
Misread Risk
This is a supportive phrase used to lower the barrier for others to ask questions; it is not meant to be used as a way to mock someone's current lack of knowledge.
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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.