Japanese meaning of 鉄は熱いうちに打て
Reading:
てつはあついうちにうて (Tetsu wa atsui uchi ni ute)
English Translation:
Strike while the iron is hot
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Act while circumstances are favorable and motivation is high. This proverb compares people to blacksmiths, encouraging us to take timely action, as waiting too long can cause opportunities to be lost forever.
Cultural Context:
Connects diligence with timing—a valued trait in Japanese craftsmanship.
物事には最適なタイミングがあり、熱意や状況が整っているうちに行動すべきだという教えです。機を逃さず、早めに動くことの大切さを説いています。
職人文化の「タイミングを見極めた努力」を示すことわざ。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
Uses imperative “打て” and temporal phrase “うちに” for urgency.
Trap for English Speakers
Literal blacksmithing image may mislead; it’s about seizing opportunities.
Example
Basic Example
思いついたアイデアは、鉄は熱いうちに打てで形にした方がいい。
If you have an idea, strike while the iron is hot and put it into action.
Applied Example
「今やらなきゃ後悔するぞ。鉄は熱いうちに打てだ。」
If you don’t do it now, you’ll regret it. Strike while the iron is hot.