Aug 18, 2005

Kotowaza of the day: Bad Bush!

Japanese:
枯れ木も山の賑わい

Romanized:
Kareki-mo yama-no nigiwai

Meaning of Japanese:
Even a withered bush (tree) livens up mountain scenery somewhat

English equivalents:
A bad bush is better than the open field
Anything is better than nothing

Somewhat related:
Better late than never

In Japanese social situations, where facile deployment of humility is key, this expression is used by some to accept an invitation. Obviously, applying this expression to another person is rude, and may get you challenged to a karaoke smackdown.

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