past tense and perfective aspect of 言う (iu, yū) [godan]

nonetheless, although, be that as it may

better (comparative of the adjectives good or well)

Japanese style

(literally) digging around a tree before transplanting it / (figuratively) seeking agreement in meetings and discussions with others before putting a change into action

(figuratively) take measures, lay the groundwork by seeking consensus beforehand / (literally) dig around a tree before planting it

aquiline nose

washi, traditional Japanese paper

gardener

eagle