じゅうにんじゅういろ

jūnin jūiro

What does "じゅうにんじゅういろ" mean in English?

everyone has their own preferences

十人十色、人それぞれって言うし、お互いの意見を尊重しよう。

They say everyone has their own preferences, so let's respect each other's opinions.

How to use "じゅうにんじゅういろ" correctly: definitions and examples in English?

◆ What It Really Means

The acknowledgment that people have inherently different preferences, opinions, or personalities, and these differences should be respected.

¶ Literal Meaning

Ten people, ten colors

Literal Breakdown

十人ten people+十色ten colors

◇ Mental Image

A metaphorical image of a vibrant palette where each color represents a unique individual, emphasizing diversity and individuality.

◈ When to Use

During a team meeting where members debate solutions, someone might say, 'Well, 十人十色 after all,' to remind the group that differing opinions are natural and should be valued.

◉ Cultural Note

The phrase originates from classical Japanese literature and reflects the cultural value of 'wa' (harmony) coexisting with individuality. It is often cited in educational contexts to teach tolerance.

formal

Everyone has different tastes or opinions; diversity in preferences

このグループでは十人十色の意見が出されました。

In this group, everyone expressed their own unique opinions.

十人十色だから、全員に合う解決策は難しい。

Since everyone has different preferences, it's hard to find a solution that suits everyone.

Often used to emphasize the importance of accepting diverse viewpoints.

a proverb meaning 'everyone has their own tastes'

Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This phrase reflects Japan's cultural emphasis on harmony (和, wa) while acknowledging individual differences. It's often used to promote tolerance in group settings.

Gold Rule

Usage Scenario

Use this phrase when explaining why a one-size-fits-all approach won't work, such as in team projects, family decisions, or policy-making.

Word Origin

The phrase combines 十人 (jūnin, 'ten people') and 十色 (jūiro, 'ten colors'), suggesting that even among ten people, there are ten different colors—metaphorically representing ten different preferences or personalities.

Usage Notes

Used in both spoken and written Japanese to acknowledge individual differences. Common in discussions about teamwork, relationships, and social harmony.

Word Breakdown

十人

ten people

noun

十色

ten colors (representing diversity)

noun

和英辞典

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