Japanese meaning of 花より団子

Reading:
はなよりだんご (Hana yori dango)

English Translation:

Substance over style / Bread is better than the song of birds

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:


This proverb means people tend to value practical benefits or necessities over aesthetics or appearances. While enjoying cherry blossoms, some may focus more on eating delicious treats than on the beauty of the flowers. It suggests that people often prefer substance and real gain over things that are merely pleasing to the eye.

Cultural Context:


Reflects Japanese pragmatism and realistic attitudes.

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

Uses a comparative structure ("より") to express preference.

Trap for English Speakers

“Dumplings” and “flowers” are symbolic, not literal.

Example

Basic Example

花見の幹事なのに、彼は「花より団子」を地で行き、屋台のメニューばかり調べていた。

At the cherry‑blossom party, he literally lived by “dumplings over flowers,” obsessing over food stalls rather than petals.


Applied Example

「花より団子。きれいよりおいしい、これが俺の流儀だ。」

“Substance over style. Dumplings over flowers. That’s my way.”