舌を巻く

• Reading: したをまく
• Romaji: shita wo maku
• Kanji breakdown: 舌 (zetsu/shita) — tongue; 巻 (kan/ma) — roll, wind
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.ta.o.ma.kɯ/

Meaning

To be astonished; to be amazed; to be deeply impressed. An expression of overwhelming admiration.

An idiomatic expression using Group 1 (godan) verb 巻く. Describes being so impressed that one is left speechless — as if the tongue curls back in awe. Always used positively to express genuine admiration for someone's skill, achievement, or quality. Cannot be used for negative surprise.

Examples

1. 彼のピアノの腕前には舌を巻いた。 I was absolutely blown away by his piano skills.
2. プロの料理人の手際の良さに舌を巻く。 The professional chef's efficiency is truly jaw-dropping.
3. 舌を巻くような見事な演技だった。 It was a jaw-dropping, magnificent performance.

Usage Guide

Context: admiration, storytelling, reviews

Tone: impressed

Origin & History

Literally means to roll one's tongue. The image is of being so astonished that the tongue curls back involuntarily, rendering one unable to speak. Used in Japanese since the medieval period.

Cultural Context

Era: Medieval

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal