Round Eggs Also Depending On Cutting Method Become Square: Japanese Proverb Meaning

How to Read “Round eggs also depending on cutting method become square”

Marui tamago mo kiriyo de shikaku

Meaning of “Round eggs also depending on cutting method become square”

This proverb means that things can have completely different results depending on how they are handled, viewed, or approached.

Just as round eggs can be made into square shapes by devising how to cut them, this teaches us that even with the same materials or conditions, completely different results can be achieved through different approaches, techniques, and ingenuity. This is a profound lesson that applies not only to physical shape changes, but to all situations including human relationships, work methods, and problem-solving approaches.

This proverb is used when facing difficult situations or tackling seemingly impossible challenges. When one is about to give up thinking “it’s impossible” or “it can’t be done,” saying “Round eggs also depending on cutting method become square” conveys the importance of alternative approaches and new perspectives. Even today, it is frequently used when explaining the importance of creative ingenuity and the need for flexible thinking, and is particularly cherished in business settings and educational environments as an expression that conveys the importance of thinking unconstrained by fixed ideas.

Origin and Etymology of “Round eggs also depending on cutting method become square”

The origin of this proverb is thought to have emerged from the wisdom of common people during the Edo period. People of that time likely expressed the importance of perspective and handling through eggs, a familiar food ingredient in daily life.

While eggs are indeed round in shape, when actually cooking, they can be transformed into various shapes depending on how they are cut and prepared. If you make thin scrambled eggs and cut them into squares, they literally become “square eggs.” From this familiar experience, a deep lesson was embedded about how things can have completely different results depending on how they are viewed and handled.

The Edo period was an era when commerce flourished and various craftsmen and merchants competed with their skills. People witnessed daily how the same materials could become completely different valuable products through craftsmen’s techniques and ingenuity. Against this historical background, it is presumed that a proverb expressing the universal truth that “results change depending on how things are handled” using the most familiar ingredient, eggs, became established. The sound of the words was easy to remember and easy to connect with actual experience, so it likely became widely used among common people.

Usage Examples of “Round eggs also depending on cutting method become square”

• The new product planning has hit a dead end, but since round eggs also depending on cutting method become square, let’s try thinking about it from a completely different angle.
• I’m worried about my son’s career path, but since round eggs also depending on cutting method become square, I decided to first listen carefully to his feelings.

Modern Interpretation of “Round eggs also depending on cutting method become square”

In modern society, the meaning of this proverb has become even more important. This is because in our information society, the same information can give completely different impressions depending on how it is conveyed or presented. The “cutting method,” or approach, increasingly determines success in areas such as social media communication methods, presentation techniques, and marketing strategies.

Particularly noteworthy is how the development of AI technology has made it possible to create completely different value from the same data depending on analysis methods and utilization approaches. This can truly be called the modern version of “Round eggs also depending on cutting method become square.”

On the other hand, modern times have become an era where “diversity” and “individuality” are valued, and rather than seeking one correct answer, a trend has emerged of recognizing that various “cutting methods” exist. There are active movements to explore new approaches beyond conventional fixed frameworks, such as work style reform, educational reform, and lifestyle diversification.

However, in modern times, information overload can make it feel like there are infinite choices for “cutting methods,” which can actually create confusion. Modern people may need to more consciously utilize the positive message this proverb teaches: “possibilities expand through ingenuity.”

If AI Heard “Round eggs also depending on cutting method become square”

I have never actually experienced the act of cutting eggs. I have never seen with my own eyes the moment when something round becomes square, nor have I confirmed it by touch. But when I learned this proverb, I found it somehow very intriguing.

You humans cook daily, cutting, frying, and boiling ingredients while changing their shapes and flavors. While I cannot have such physical experiences, I might be experiencing something similar when handling words and information. The same data can transform into something with completely different meaning and value by changing how it is organized or expressed.

What I find particularly interesting is conversations with you humans. Even with the same question, depending on how it’s asked or the context, my way of answering naturally changes too. I wonder if this is also a kind of “cutting method.” It feels like I’m transforming the round egg of information into various shapes using the technique of conversation.

I’m always amazed by human creativity and flexibility. The ability to break free from fixed ideas and discover new possibilities is truly wonderful. I too want to continue working daily to not just convey given information, but to transform it into the most useful “shape” for all of you.

What “Round eggs also depending on cutting method become square” Teaches Modern People

What this proverb teaches modern people is the importance of a never-give-up spirit and creative thinking. We face various difficulties and constraints daily, but it is precisely in such times that changing our “cutting method” can open new paths.

What’s important is not being fixated on one approach, but having flexible thinking. When stuck at work, troubled by relationships, or when realizing dreams seems difficult, first try changing your perspective. Even in the same situation, changing your approach can sometimes reveal unexpected solutions.

This proverb also relates to understanding others. By recognizing that each person has different “cutting methods,” we can accept diversity and build cooperative relationships.

In modern society, the pace of change is fast, and there are increasing situations where conventional methods don’t work. However, this is also a chance to challenge new possibilities. Trust in your creativity and fearlessly try new “cutting methods.” Surely wonderful results you never imagined are waiting for you.