Japanese meaning of 張子の虎
Reading:
はりこのとら (hariko no tora)
English Translation:
Paper tiger
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Paper tiger.
Cultural Context:
Originally from a Chinese idiom; also used in Japanese to critique organizations or leaders lacking real power.
見かけだけ立派で中身が伴わないという意味。
中国の成語に由来し、日本でも実力の伴わない人物や組織を批判する際に使われる。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• 張子 (hariko) = “papier-mâché” (noun)
• の (no) = possessive/attributive particle
• 虎 (tora) = “tiger” (noun)
Noun phrase linked by の, implying something impressive-looking but hollow or weak inside.
Trap for English Speakers
May be interpreted as just a paper craft, not something that only appears strong.
Example
Basic Example
あの組織は威勢だけ。張子の虎だ。
That organization is a Paper tiger.
Applied Example
巨大ロボが立派に見えても、実は空っぽ。張子の虎。
The giant mech looks imposing but it’s a Paper tiger.