1.
one's place; one's station; one's standing; one's limits
One's social position, abilities, or means. Often used in expressions about knowing one's limits or acting within one's means.
身の程を知れ。
Know your place.
身の程をわきまえた行動をするべきだ。
You should act in accordance with your station.
身の程知らずにも社長に意見してしまったが、意外にも受け入れてもらえた。
I had the audacity to offer my opinion to the CEO, but surprisingly it was accepted.
USAGE:
Most commonly appears in set expressions. 身の程を知る (to know one's place) and 身の程知らず (not knowing one's place) are the most frequent. Can sound harsh or old-fashioned when used to tell someone to stay in their lane.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 身の程を知る (to know one's place)
- 身の程知らず (not knowing one's place; presumptuous)
- 身の程をわきまえる (to be aware of one's standing)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 分際: one's status/position — harsher, used to put someone down
- 身分: social standing, status — more neutral, refers to official rank or position