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VocabJLPT N1

long-nosed goblin

Noun

Definitions

1. tengu
2. red-faced and long-nosed goblin said to reside deep in the mountains
3. bragging
4. Tengu

This noun refers to a creature from Japanese folklore — a legendary being depicted with a long nose, red face, and wings, often living in mountains. It is also used figuratively to describe someone who is arrogant or extremely skilled and conceited.

Example sentences

Sentence 1

The carvings of tengu on this temple gate are exquisite right down to the details.

Sentence 2

For some reason, the sound of a "tengu's laughter" keeps echoing in my head.

Sentence 3

The innkeeper told us, "Long ago, a tengu protected this mountain."

Sentence 4

Wait, do tengu's feather fans actually exist?

Sentence 5

She explained, "the tengu's nose is a symbol of pride."