Japanese meaning of 縁の下の力持ち
Reading:
えんのしたのちからもち (en no shita no chikaramochi)
English Translation:
The unsung hero
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Someone who supports others without seeking recognition.
Cultural Context:
Parallels the Japanese value of humility and group contribution without seeking recognition.
他人を支えながらも自らは表舞台に立たない人という意味。
謙虚さや集団への貢献を重んじる日本の価値観と通じる。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• 縁の下 (en no shita) = “under the veranda/floor” (noun phrase)
• の (no) = possessive/attributive particle
• 力持ち (chikaramoji) = “strong person” (noun)
Noun phrase linked by の, often used metaphorically for unseen support.
Trap for English Speakers
Literal meaning may confuse learners; it’s a metaphor for someone supporting others from behind the scenes.
Example
Basic Example
表に出ないが、彼は完全に縁の下の力持ちだ。
He works behind the scenes, truly an unsung hero.
Applied Example
戦闘班を支える補給係は、まさに縁の下の力持ちだ。
The supply officer backing the fighters is the unsung hero.