A proverb meaning that even the hardest or sternest person can be moved to tears; literally, “there are tears even in the ogre's eye.” Used to say that even the cruel have compassion sometimes.
普段は厳しいあの先生も、甥のことを聞いては鬼の目にも涙だった。
That teacher who's usually strict was moved to tears when he heard about his nephew — even the sternest person can shed a tear.
彼は仕事では厳しいが、困っている部下を見ると鬼の目にも涙を見せることがある。
He's strict at work, but when he sees a subordinate in trouble he can show compassion — even the hardest heart can cry.