Japanese

こうこく
Meaning: large birds (swan/great bird); great person
Part of Speech: Noun

Listen to pronunciation

Handwriting

鴻
鵠

Example sentences

Ordinary people find it hard to understand the thoughts of a hero, but he possesses great ambitions.
燕雀安んぞ鴻鵠の志を知らんや。
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

Often used in the context of someone having grand or heroic aspirations.

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