Japanese meaning of 雀の涙
Reading:
すずめのなみだ (suzume no namida)
English Translation:
A drop in the bucket
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Something so small it has little effect on the whole.
Cultural Context:
Appears in Japanese charity and fundraising contexts to stress small contributions.
あまりにも小さく全体に影響を与えないことという意味。
募金やチャリティ活動で小さな寄付の例えとして使われる。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• 雀 (suzume) = “sparrow” (noun)
• の (no) = possessive/attributive particle
• 涙 (namida) = “tear” (noun)
Noun phrase linked by の, used metaphorically for a very small amount.
Trap for English Speakers
Literal meaning may confuse learners; it refers to a negligible amount, not bird tears.
Example
Basic Example
その寄付金額は必要経費に比べれば雀の涙だ。
The donation amount is a drop in the bucket compared to the needed expenses.
Applied Example
装備強化費用に比べたら、この報酬は雀の涙だな。
Compared to gear upgrade costs, this reward is just a drop in the bucket.