Japanese meaning of 美辞麗句
Reading:
びじれいく (biji reiku)
English Translation:
Fine words butter no parsnips
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
The use of refined, elegant, or elaborate language that may sound impressive but lacks genuine substance. It is often used to point out superficial or insincere praise.
見た目や響きは美しいものの、中身が伴わず表面的なだけの言葉や表現。実体がなく、上辺だけの褒め言葉や空虚な美辞麗句を指します。
Cultural Context:
Often appears in literary critique, politics, and advertising to describe impressive-sounding but empty phrases.
文学批評、政治、広告で、立派に聞こえるが中身のない言葉を表す際に用いられる。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase with “に惑わされる” or “を並べる.”
Trap for English Speakers
English speakers may misinterpret it as inherently positive, missing its critical nuance.
Example
Basic Example
美辞麗句に惑わされてはいけない。
Don’t be deceived by fine words that butter no parsnips.
Applied Example
「美辞麗句だけで中身がない演説なんて信用できない。」
Fine words butter no parsnips — I can’t trust a speech with no substance.