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Definition of Idiom
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the words in the phrase. For... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on... read full definition
Chapter 36
Explanation and Analysis—Take the Poison:
“Take the poison, take the plate.” This idiom roughly corresponds to the English phrase, “in for a penny, in for a pound,” meaning that if you’re going to invest slightly in something, you might as well invest entirely. Hoshino says it in response to Nakata apologizing for causing Hoshino trouble, and Nakata is confused by what he sees as irrational advice:
“But if you eat a plate, you’ll die. It’s not good for your teeth, either. And it’ll hurt your throat.”
“I’d have to agree,” Hoshino said, puzzling over it. “Yeah—why do you have to eat the plate?”
“I’m not so bright, so I really can’t tell you. But aside from the poison, the plate’s way too hard.”
“Um. You got that right. I’m starting to get confused myself. I never was one for using my head, either. What I’m trying to say is, I’ve come this far so I’ll stick with you and make sure you escape. I can’t believe you did anything bad, and I’m not going to just abandon you here. I’ve got my honor to consider.”
