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Proverbs

Japanese meaning of 腹八分目

Reading:

はらはちぶんめ (Hara hachibunme)

English Translation:

Moderation in all things

Emotion: Scene:

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:

Eating until you are 80% full leads to better health and self-control. This proverb promotes moderation and restraint, suggesting that doing things in moderation is the key to long-term well-being and success—not just with food, but in all aspects of life.
日本語で読む
何事も「ほどほど」が大切で、特に食事は満腹まで食べず腹八分でやめておくのが健康によいという教えです。節度や自己管理の重要性を広く伝えることわざです。

Cultural Context:

Reflects Japanese attitudes toward restraint, balance, and health.
日本語で読む
日本の節度やバランスを重んじる文化が反映されています。

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

Uses a fraction ("八分目") to express moderation.
日本語で読む
「八分目」という分数表現で控えめさを表現。

Trap for English Speakers

Literal translation may confuse learners; it's not a strict diet rule but a general principle.
日本語で読む
直訳すると食事のルールに思えるが、全体の節制を示す。

Example

Example 1Basic Example

  1. 忙しい日は昼食を「腹八分目」に抑えると、午後の集中力が保てる。

    Keeping lunch to moderation in all things helped him focus all afternoon.

Example 2Applied Example

  1. 彼女はケーキを一口残した。腹八分目、明日の練習のために甘さは控えめ。

    She left one bite of cake; moderation in all things for tomorrow’s practice.

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Quick check

Meaning

What does 「腹八分目」 mean?

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