Japanese Word · Beginner
蟷螂の斧
a reckless strike above one’s strength or proper station
Pronunciation: say 蟷螂の斧
Meaning
a reckless strike above one’s strength or proper station
Example
勝久公当国へ入らせたまい、諸人みなお味方にはせ参ずるとき、三百の兵にて手向かい申すこと蟷螂の斧も同様
Katsuhisa shall not enter this country, even if all his supporters charge at once, against three hundred soldiers he is just kicking against the pricks.
Practice tips
- Practice 蟷螂の斧 out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this Japanese word is for beginner-level learners.