三日坊主

• Reading: みっかぼうず
• Romaji: mikka bouzu
• Kanji breakdown: 三 (san/mi) — three; 日 (ka/nichi) — day; 坊 (bou) — monk, boy; 主 (zu/shu/nushi) — master, main
• Pronunciation: /mik.ka.boː.zɯ/

Meaning

Someone who cannot stick with anything; a quitter. A person who gives up new endeavours after only a few days.

An idiomatic noun literally meaning a three-day monk. Refers to someone who starts something with enthusiasm but quickly abandons it. Derived from the idea of a person entering a monastery but quitting after just three days due to the strict lifestyle. Very commonly used in self-deprecating contexts about failed resolutions or abandoned hobbies.

Examples

1. ダイエットを始めたが三日坊主で終わった。 I started a diet but gave up after just a few days.
2. 私は何をやっても三日坊主になってしまう。 No matter what I start, I always end up quitting after a few days.
3. 日記を続けたいけど、三日坊主にならないか心配だ。 I want to keep up with my diary, but I'm worried I'll quit after a few days.

Usage Guide

Context: self-reflection, habits, daily life

Tone: self-deprecating

Origin & History

Literally a three-day monk. Originates from the image of someone who enters a Buddhist monastery but cannot endure the austere lifestyle and leaves after just three days. The idiom has been in use since the Edo period.

Cultural Context

Era: Edo

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal