腰が低い

• Reading: こしがひくい
• Romaji: koshi ga hikui
• Kanji breakdown: 腰 (koshi) — waist, hips; 低 (hikui) — low
• Pronunciation: /ko.ɕi.ɡa.çi.kɯ.i/

Meaning

Humble; modest; unassuming. Describes a person who behaves respectfully without arrogance.

An idiomatic i-adjective expression literally meaning 'low waist/hips,' referring to someone who bows deeply and frequently — a sign of humility and respect in Japanese culture. Used as praise for someone who remains modest despite high status or achievement. The opposite is 腰が高い (arrogant, high-handed). Often used to describe business leaders, celebrities, or authority figures who treat others with courtesy.

Examples

1. 社長なのにとても腰が低い人だ。 He's the company president, yet he's a very humble person.
2. 腰が低い対応をすることで信頼を得た。 He earned trust by always being humble in his manner.
3. あの先輩は誰に対しても腰が低い。 That senior colleague is humble toward everyone.

Usage Guide

Context: personality, business, social evaluation

Tone: appreciative

Origin & History

An idiomatic Japanese expression based on the physical act of bowing. A 'low waist' means one bows deeply and readily, showing humility. In Japanese culture, the depth of a bow correlates with the degree of respect being shown.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal