Japanese meaning of 腹八分目
Reading:
はらはちぶんめ (Hara hachibunme)
English Translation:
Moderation in all things
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Eating until you are 80% full leads to better health and self-control. This proverb promotes moderation and restraint, suggesting that doing things in moderation is the key to long-term well-being and success—not just with food, but in all aspects of life.
何事も「ほどほど」が大切で、特に食事は満腹まで食べず腹八分でやめておくのが健康によいという教えです。節度や自己管理の重要性を広く伝えることわざです。
Cultural Context:
Reflects Japanese attitudes toward restraint, balance, and health.
日本の節度やバランスを重んじる文化が反映されています。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
Uses a fraction ("八分目") to express moderation.
Trap for English Speakers
Literal translation may confuse learners; it's not a strict diet rule but a general principle.
Example
Basic Example
忙しい日は昼食を「腹八分目」に抑えると、午後の集中力が保てる。
Keeping lunch to moderation in all things helped him focus all afternoon.
Applied Example
彼女はケーキを一口残した。腹八分目、明日の練習のために甘さは控えめ。
She left one bite of cake; moderation in all things for tomorrow’s practice.