Originally Posted by nice gaijin
quite simply, milk is a metaphor for sex, and "buying the cow" is a metaphor for marriage. This is a very old saying that has been used to dissuade young women from giving up their virginity before getting married.
Ah! sokka, then , this old saying is exclusive use of that matter (sex and marriage) and you cannot use it on other stuff?
For example, I was wondering if I could use it like the below:
Let's say there's a Japanese guy who has been studying Italian at an Italian language school. He met an Italian native speaker and they became friends. Now that his Italian friend can teach him the language, he thought he no longer needs to go to the school, so he quit the school. When asked why he did so, he can say "I now have an Italian speaking friend, then how buy a cow when milk is cheap?" ("buying the cow" = going to an Italian language school, "milk" = learning Italian by his Italian speaking friend)
Gee, if i used it like that, I would have made a fool out of myself neeee.
Thanks, nice gaijin-san! And osistlk-san, I also thank you for trying to help me! ricecake-san, I always enjoy your information and I really appreciate it. I hope your husband doesn't have a secret side-dish. (jk)
P.S.
nice gaijin-san, I am seeing the Japanese flag under your username here! Welcome to Japan! I know you already have lots of friends and a host family who can always help you here, but if there is anything I could do for you, please ask me , anytime!