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.
日本語で読む
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。
Cultural Context:
Reflects the Japanese value of harmony and the risks of non-conformity.
日本語で読む
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.
日本語で読む
「杭」と受動態の動詞を使った比喩表現。
Trap for English Speakers
Not about construction; it's a social metaphor for group conformity.
日本語で読む
直訳だと大工仕事に思えるが、集団の規律の比喩。
Example
Example 1Basic 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.
Example 2Applied 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.
Quick check
Meaning
What does 「出る杭は打たれる」 mean?