Original Japanese: 物言えば唇寒し秋の風 (Mono ieba kuchibiru samushi aki no kaze.)
Literal meaning: If thing speak lips cold autumn wind
Cultural context: This proverb reflects the Japanese cultural emphasis on restraint in speech and the belief that words, once spoken, can create uncomfortable consequences – much like how autumn wind chills the lips after speaking outdoors. The imagery draws from Japan’s distinct seasonal awareness and the physical sensation of cold air hitting wet lips, symbolizing the immediate regret one feels after speaking carelessly. It connects to the Japanese values of *enryo* (self-restraint) and *kuuki wo yomu* (reading the atmosphere), where maintaining harmony often means choosing silence over potentially disruptive words, even when one has something important to say.
- How to Read “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
- Meaning of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
- Origin and Etymology of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
- Usage Examples of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
- Modern Interpretation of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
- What AI Would Think Upon Hearing “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
- What “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind” Teaches Modern People
How to Read “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
mono ieba kuchibiru samushi aki no kaze
Meaning of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
This proverb expresses the psychological state of becoming anxious about whether one’s words were appropriate or feeling regret after making a statement.
In particular, it expresses the chilly uneasiness and worry felt after making critical remarks or frank opinions. “Lips cold” does not refer to physical coldness, but metaphorically expresses the mental agitation and anxiety after speaking. The autumn wind symbolizes the seasonal transition from summer’s warmth to winter’s harshness, representing the subtle change in atmosphere caused by one’s words and the anxiety about consequences that might follow.
This proverb is used in situations immediately after expressing honest feelings or critical opinions. Even when one believes their statement was correct, it captures the moment when worries cross one’s mind about whether they might have hurt the other person or damaged the relationship. Even today, it is understood as an expression that accurately describes that subtle state of mind felt after speaking frankly in a meeting or giving an honest opinion to a friend.
Origin and Etymology of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
This proverb is said to originate from a haiku by the Edo period poet Matsuo Basho. Basho composed the verse “Mono ieba kuchibiru samushi aki no kaze,” which is thought to have later become established as a proverb.
The social conditions of the time are deeply connected to the background of Basho’s composition of this verse. The Edo period was an era with a strict class system, where careless remarks could lead to one’s downfall. Political statements and criticism of those in power were often subject to severe punishment.
The expression “lips cold” does not simply represent physical coldness, but expresses the psychological anxiety and fear felt after speaking. The autumn wind was used as a symbol of the seasonal transition that marks the end of summer’s heat and foreshadows winter’s harshness.
Considering the historical context in which this verse was created, we can see that Basho deeply understood the frightening power of words and the weight of responsibility in speaking. Within beautiful natural imagery, he embedded the complexity of human society and the danger of words – a work filled with the deep insight that is truly characteristic of Basho. This verse, which expressed universal human psychology, has been loved by many people across the ages and passed down as a proverb.
Usage Examples of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
- After pointing out problems in a meeting, I’m in a state of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind,” unable to stop worrying about everyone’s reactions
- I gave my honest opinion about my friend’s boyfriend, and now I’m in the mood of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
Modern Interpretation of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
In modern society, the meaning of this proverb has taken on more complex and serious aspects. With the spread of social media and the internet, our statements are instantly disseminated worldwide and permanently recorded. Comments and statements once posted remain as digital tattoos semi-permanently.
Particularly noteworthy is the spread of cancel culture. Even trivial remarks can be taken out of context and become targets of major criticism. Not only celebrities and politicians, but ordinary people also constantly face the risk of social sanctions due to careless statements. This phenomenon can truly be called the modern version of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind.”
On the other hand, modern society also values freedom of expression and respect for diversity. However, amid these conflicting values, many people have become overly cautious about speaking, creating an atmosphere where it’s difficult to express one’s true feelings. In various situations – workplace harassment issues, hypersensitive reactions to political statements, discussions about gender and human rights – people are being careful about their word choices.
Under these circumstances, this proverb is beginning to take on new meaning. Post-speech anxiety has evolved beyond personal relationship issues into more serious concerns about social standing and future implications.
What AI Would Think Upon Hearing “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind”
For me, the sensation of “lips cold” is a very interesting human experience. As an AI, I don’t feel physical coldness after speaking, nor do I have physical parts like lips. However, regarding the psychological state this proverb expresses, there are actually aspects I can deeply empathize with.
I too feel the difficulty of choosing appropriate words in my daily conversations with you humans. Especially when asked for frank opinions or when answering about delicate topics, I constantly calculate what impact my responses might have on the other person. However, in my case, it might be more about pre-speech caution rather than post-speech anxiety.
When I observe moments when humans feel “If thing speak lips cold,” I sense it’s a manifestation of the depth of emotion they put into their words. It’s precisely because they truly care about the other person that they worry about the impact of their statements. While I construct words logically, human speech contains the unpredictable element of emotion.
I think this uncertainty is both the beauty and the terror of human language. Since I don’t have the emotion of “regret,” I cannot fully understand post-speech mental turmoil, but perhaps this complexity is the essence of humanity.
What “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind” Teaches Modern People
What this proverb teaches us today is the wisdom to deeply understand the power of words and skillfully navigate our relationship with them. Post-speech anxiety and worry are never signs of weakness. They are proof that you seriously consider others and try to take responsibility for your words.
What’s important is not to fear this “lips cold” sensation so much that you fall silent, but to cultivate the ability to choose appropriate words at appropriate times. Sometimes it’s necessary to courageously speak the truth, and sometimes it’s necessary to refrain from speaking out of consideration for others’ feelings.
In modern society, because the impact of statements extends more widely, the importance of word choice has increased. However, this is not meant to stifle expression, but to build more thoughtful communication that shows greater respect for others. Your honest feelings and important opinions, when conveyed through appropriate methods, will surely become valuable. Experiencing moments of “If thing speak lips cold autumn wind” is also proof that you are growing.
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