Japanese

えんじゃく
Meaning: swallows and sparrows; small-minded person
Part of Speech: Noun

Listen to pronunciation

Handwriting

燕
雀

Example sentences

How can a swallow or sparrow know the ambitions of a great swan?
燕雀焉んぞ鴻鵠の志を知らんや。
How can a swallow or a sparrow know the aspirations of a swan?
燕雀安んぞ鴻鵠の志を知らんや。
How can a small bird understand the ambitions of a great swan?

Usage Notes

A metaphor for common or small-minded people who cannot comprehend the grand designs of great individuals.

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