How to Read “無用の長物”
Muyou no choubutsu
Meaning of “無用の長物”
“Useless long thing” is a proverb that refers to objects or matters that appear large and impressive but are actually of no use whatsoever.
This expression is used to describe situations where something is large in size or impressive in appearance but completely lacks practicality. “Useless” means not helpful, and “long thing” refers to something long and large.
In terms of usage, it is often employed when critically evaluating something. For example, it might be used to describe expensive, large equipment that was installed but turned out to be inconvenient and unused by anyone, or buildings that look good but lack functionality.
In modern times, the reason for using this expression stems from a desire to convey the importance of not being misled by appearance or scale, but rather discerning true value and practicality. As you may have experienced yourself, the larger and more conspicuous something is, the more carefully we need to assess its actual usefulness—this is what this proverb teaches us.
Origin and Etymology
The origin of “Useless long thing” lies in a parable recorded in the ancient Chinese classic “Zhuangzi.” In this story, a tree appears that is too large to be used as lumber.
According to Zhuangzi’s parable, a carpenter found a giant oak tree in the mountains. However, the tree was so large, with many knots and twisted shape, that it was completely useless as building material. The carpenter lamented, “Such a large tree, yet it’s of no use at all.”
However, that night, the spirit of the tree appeared in the carpenter’s dream and said: “The reason I have lived so long is precisely because I was useless to humans. If I had been a useful tree, I would have been cut down long ago.”
This parable teaches that even things that appear useless at first glance may actually have different value. Zhuangzi’s philosophy emphasizes the importance of not being bound by worldly utility, but finding value in things as they naturally are.
Chinese classics are believed to have been introduced to Japan around the Heian period along with Buddhism, and this expression likely became established then. Over time, uniquely Japanese interpretations were added, leading to its current usage.
Usage Examples
- The new office building is impressive, but the parking lot is too small, making it a useless long thing
- I bought an overly high-tech appliance, but ended up only using basic functions, making it a useless long thing
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, the concept of “Useless long thing” has taken on more complex meanings. Particularly with the rapid development of technology, we frequently see phenomena where technology that was cutting-edge yesterday becomes obsolete today.
Digital devices like smartphones and computers are typical examples. The more high-performance and multifunctional a product is, the more limited the actually used functions often are, making users feel it’s a “Useless long thing.” Similarly, large-scale systems introduced by companies often go unused because they don’t match workplace needs.
On the other hand, the very concept of “useless” is being reconsidered in modern times. With growing concern for environmental issues, things that appear wasteful at first glance are now recognized as having important meaning from ecological and cultural value perspectives.
Furthermore, in the age of social media and digital marketing, the gap between “impressive appearance” and “actual value” has become more pronounced. The ability to discern what is truly necessary, without being misled by influencer marketing or flashy advertisements, is more strongly demanded of modern people.
This proverb can be said to demonstrate its true value precisely because we live in modern times surrounded by material abundance.
When AI Hears This
The “great reversal of values” happening in digital society is fascinating. According to 2020 data, analog record sales surpassed CDs for the first time in 34 years. In other words, records that were once considered “outdated and useless relics” are now outselling the more advanced CD technology.
The core of this reversal phenomenon lies in “perfectly imperfect imperfection.” For example, on Instagram, filters that deliberately add film-like “noise” to digital photos are extremely popular. More and more people find “imperfect” photos with scratches and grain more “flavorful” than perfectly clear digital images.
Handwritten letters follow the same pattern. People deliberately spend time writing by hand messages that could be sent via LINE in one second. In terms of efficiency alone, this is certainly a “useless relic,” but the emotional impact on the recipient is incomparable.
What this phenomenon reveals is a shift in how we define “useless.” In the digital age, “useful” referred to efficiency and convenience. But now, what’s truly “useful” might be the power to move people’s hearts. The analog “waste” and “effort” have actually become the most “useful” means of expressing our humanity.
In other words, “useless relics” hold the potential to transform into “the most necessary things” when an era comes full circle.
Lessons for Today
What “Useless long thing” teaches modern people is the importance of having an eye that can see through to the essence. We live surrounded by various information, products, and services daily, and we need the ability to select what is truly valuable from among them.
This proverb teaches you the importance of “stopping to think.” Before jumping at something new or large, you can develop the habit of calmly judging whether it will truly enrich your life.
Also, while modern society tends to emphasize only “efficiency,” we must not forget that even things that appear wasteful at first glance may contain elements that nurture richness of heart and creativity. Rather than dividing everything into “useful” and “useless,” this proverb also teaches us the importance of having diverse values.
What is truly important in your life? While keeping this proverb in mind, please find your own true values without being misled by superficial attractions. By doing so, you should be able to walk a more fulfilling life.
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