Japanese meaning of 出る杭は打たれる
Reading:
でるくいはうたれる (Deru kui wa utareru)
English Translation:
The nail that sticks out gets hammered down
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
People who stand out or draw attention to themselves are often criticized or suppressed. This proverb reflects the social tendency to value conformity and harmony, and warns that being too different may attract unwanted attention or pushback.
Cultural Context:
Reflects the Japanese value of harmony and the risks of non-conformity.
目立つ人や異彩を放つ人は、周囲から批判されたり抑え込まれたりしやすいという教えです。和を重んじる日本社会で、出過ぎた行動が反発を招くことを戒めています。
和を重んじる日本社会の同調圧力が表れています。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
Uses a metaphor with "nail" and passive verb structure.
Trap for English Speakers
Not about construction; it's a social metaphor for group conformity.
Example
Basic Example
チームで目立ちすぎると、出る杭は打たれることもある。
Standing out too much in a team can sometimes lead to pushback — the nail that sticks out gets hammered down.
Applied Example
「お前、活躍しすぎだって言われてるぞ。出る杭は打たれるんだよ。」
They say you’re doing too well. The nail that sticks out gets hammered down.