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Yomi
てまえみそ
Rōmaji
temae miso
Type
idiom
Literal Meaning
this-side miso
Meaning
I’m afraid this may sound boastful, but; Sorry, let me brag about something
Additional Info
People use this expression when they want to brag about something but don’t want to sound modest and not too cocky or boastful. This is a very advanced phrase and so not commonly heard in daily conversations.
It is said to originate from the common practice in the old days: people used to proudly talk about how good and unique their homemade miso is.
Example
手前味噌になりますが、 拙著が100万部売れました。
I’m afraid this may sound boastful, but my book has sold a million copies.