Japanese meaning of 背中の傷は剣士の恥だ
Reading:
せなかのきずはけんしのはじだ (Senaka no kizu wa kenshi no haji da.)
English Translation:
A wound on the back is a swordsman's shame.
Scene & Cultural Context
Scene Context:
Zoro boldly declares that receiving wounds on one's back symbolizes cowardice, emphasizing honor and bravery.
Cultural Context:
Reflects traditional Japanese warrior ideals, emphasizing honor and bravery, where retreat or cowardice is deeply shameful.
ゾロが背中に傷を負うことは逃げることを意味し、剣士の名誉に反すると堂々と主張する場面。
日本の伝統的な武士道精神(名誉や勇気を重視し、背を向けたり逃げることを恥じる)を反映した表現。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
•「恥 (haji)」= shame, disgrace (strong cultural weight)
•「~の傷 (no kizu)」= wound of~, expressing possession metaphorically or literally
Trap for English Speakers
The cultural weight of "shame" as a moral or ethical concept is stronger in Japanese context.
Example
Basic Example
ゲームで逃げ腰の友達に冗談で、
「背中の傷はゲーマーの恥だ。」
Jokingly to a friend hesitating during a game:
'A wound on the back is a gamer's shame.'