expression, ichidan verb
the nail that sticks out gets hammered down
Proverb warning that those who stand out or are different will face criticism or suppression. Often used to describe Japanese social pressure toward conformity.
See also: 出る釘は打たれる
日本では「出る杭は打たれる」ということわざがある。
In Japan, there is a proverb that says, 'The nail that sticks out gets hammered down.'
expression, ichidan verb
tall trees catch much wind
Proverb meaning that those who excel or are prominent attract envy and dislike. Similar in spirit to sense 1 but emphasizes the negative attention that comes with success.
See also: 出る釘は打たれる
彼は出世したが、同僚から嫉妬された。「出る杭は打たれる」とはこのことだ。
He got promoted but was envied by his colleagues. This is exactly what 'tall trees catch much wind' means.