Proverb / Kotowaza
青天の霹靂
A sudden, unexpected event or a major incident that occurs without warning.
A thunderclap from a clear blue sky
Quick Answer
A sudden, unexpected event or a major incident that occurs without warning.
- Literal Image
- A thunderclap from a clear blue sky
- Closest Equivalent
- (Like) A bolt from [out of] the blue
- How to Use It
- Used when describing a major shock, a sudden change in circumstances, or surprising news that one did not see coming.
Meaning
This expression describes a bolt of lightning occurring in a perfectly clear blue sky. It is used to refer to sudden, startling news or catastrophic events that happen completely unexpectedly.
Literal Image
A thunderclap from a clear blue sky
Equivalent Proverbs
(Like) A bolt from [out of] the blue
Source-listed English expression with a similar lesson.
How to Use It
Used when describing a major shock, a sudden change in circumstances, or surprising news that one did not see coming.
Tone
Can be used for serious or impactful events, but can also describe positive surprises.
Examples
突然のリストラ通告は、まさに青天の霹靂だった。
The sudden layoff notice was truly a bolt from the blue.
長年の取引先からの契約打ち切りは青天の霹靂であった。
The cancellation of the contract by a long-term business partner was a complete shock.
合格圏外だと思っていた大学に受かったのは、青天の霹靂のような喜びだった。
Getting accepted into a university I thought was out of reach was a joy as unexpected as a thunderclap from a clear sky.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Uses advanced kanji (霹靂) and a literary structure, though the individual components of the meaning are straightforward.
青天
せいてん / seiten
blue sky; clear weather
霹靂
へきれき / hekireki
thunderclap; bolt of lightning
Usage Profile
Usage note: While it can be used for negative shocks like layoffs, it can also describe positive, sudden events.
Misread Risk
Do not confuse it with ordinary rain; it specifically refers to the suddenness of thunder when the sky is clear.
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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.