足元 / one's feet; one's step
足元 (ashimoto) literally means “at one’s feet,” but its meaning changes with context. It can refer to the area around your feet—like 足元に注意 (watch your step)—or symbolically to your current situation or footing, such as financial stability or personal circumstances. In everyday use, 足元 reminds us to stay grounded and aware of what’s right in front of us.
Curious to hear more about it? Want to learn how to pronounce it? Watch or listen to Episode 56 using the below link 👇