Sessa takuma
Improve through shared effort.
Japanese four-character idiom, from the Book of Songs
The image is of cutting and polishing materials until they become finer. In Japanese, the expression can describe improving yourself through study and discipline, or sharpening your skills alongside others. Kanjipedia traces it to the Chinese Book of Songs. A study partner’s thoughtful correction can help you notice what solo practice misses.
Language note: 切磋琢磨 (せっさたくま / sessa takuma) evokes refinement through effort. The doubled s in sessa reflects the small っ.
Who helps you practise with more care?
Practice:
仲間と切磋琢磨して、腕を磨こう。
Nakama to sessa takuma shite, ude o migakō.
Let’s improve our skills by challenging one another.
Sources:
#DailyJapanWisdom #LearnJapanese #JapaneseCulture