能ある鷹は爪を隠す

のうあるたかはつめをかくす
Alternative writings: 能有る鷹は爪を隠す, 脳ある鷹は爪を隠す
Frequency:
1

A proverb meaning a truly capable person does not show off their abilities and often keeps them hidden.

ExpressionU-VerbProverb

Examples

会議で自分の意見を抑えていた彼に、上司が『能ある鷹は爪を隠す』と言った。

When he held back his opinion at the meeting, his boss said, 'A skilled hawk hides its talons.'

彼女は普段は控えめだが、料理の腕は抜群だ。能ある鷹は爪を隠すね。

She's usually modest, but her cooking is outstanding. A skilled hawk hides its talons, indeed.

無理に自慢しなくていい。能ある鷹は爪を隠すものだ。

No need to boast. A capable person keeps their skills to themselves.