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Proverbs

Japanese meaning of 鬼の目にも涙

Reading:

おにのめにもなみだ (Oni no me ni mo namida)

English Translation:

Even the hardest heart can be moved / Even ogres shed tears

Emotion: Scene:

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:

Even the toughest or most cold-hearted person can sometimes show kindness or emotion. This proverb uses the image of an ogre shedding tears to remind us that everyone, no matter how strong, has a softer side.
日本語で読む
どんなに強そうな人や冷徹に見える人でも、時には心を動かされて涙を流すことがある、というたとえです。鬼ですら感情を持つというイメージから、人間味の大切さも説いています。

Cultural Context:

Uses Japanese mythical creatures to show extremes of emotion.
日本語で読む
日本独自の神話的存在を感情表現に使うのが特徴。

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

Uses "にも" to emphasize even unlikely subjects.
日本語で読む
「にも」で強調表現を作る。

Trap for English Speakers

Not about real ogres; "oni" is a metaphor for strong or cruel people.
日本語で読む
直訳だと鬼の話に見えるが、心の動きを表す比喩。

Example

Example 1Basic Example

  1. 普段は厳しい上司が、部下の退職スピーチで鬼の目にも涙を見せた。

    Even the strictest boss can be moved to tears during a farewell speech — even ogres shed tears.

Example 2Applied Example

  1. 冷酷と呼ばれた将軍が、部下の最期を見て拳を震わせた。鬼の目にも涙だ。

    The general known for his ruthlessness trembled at the sight of his soldier’s last moments — even ogres shed tears.

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Quick check

Meaning

What does 「鬼の目にも涙」 mean?

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