Japanese proverbs and sayings, known as “kotowaza” or “kanyouku,” reflect the wisdom and cultural values of the Japanese people. These concise expressions offer valuable life lessons and insight into the Japanese way of thinking. Here are some popular Japanese proverbs and sayings:
1. 虎穴に入らずんば虎子を得ず。(Koketsu ni irazunba koji o ezu.)
Translation: “If you do not enter the tiger’s cave, you will not catch its cub.”
Meaning: Taking risks is necessary to achieve great rewards.
2. 七転び八起き。(Nanakorobi yaoki.)
Translation: “Fall seven times, stand up eight.”
Meaning: Persevere and never give up, even in the face of difficulties.
3. 猿も木から落ちる。(Saru mo ki kara ochiru.)
Translation: “Even monkeys fall from trees.”
Meaning: Everyone makes mistakes, even the most skilled or experienced.
4. 色々な釜に蓋をする。(Iroiro na kama ni futa o suru.)
Translation: “Putting a lid on various pots.”
Meaning: Being able to handle many different situations or tasks.
5. 類は友を呼ぶ。(Rui wa tomo o yobu.)
Translation: “Birds of a feather flock together.”
Meaning: People with similar interests or characteristics tend to associate with each other.
6. 石の上にも三年。(Ishi no ue ni mo san-nen.)
Translation: “Sitting on a stone for three years.”
Meaning: Perseverance and patience can lead to success or accomplishment.
7. 一期一会。(Ichi-go ichi-e.)
Translation: “One time, one meeting.”
Meaning: Each encounter with someone is unique and should be treasured.
8. 鳥なき里の蝙蝠。(Tori naki sato no koumori.)
Translation: “A bat in a village without birds.”
Meaning: A big fish in a small pond; someone who stands out due to the lack of competition.
9. 蛙の子は蛙。(Kaeru no ko wa kaeru.)
Translation: “The child of a frog is a frog.”
Meaning: Like father, like son; children inherit traits from their parents.
10. 花より団子。(Hana yori dango.)
Translation: “Dumplings rather than flowers.”
Meaning: Practicality and substance are more valuable than mere appearances.
11. 自業自得。(Jigou jitoku.)
Translation: “One’s own doing, one’s own reward.”
Meaning: You reap what you sow; the consequences of one’s actions are deserved.
12. 閉じた口には蓋。(Tojita kuchi ni wa futa.)
Translation: “A closed mouth has a lid.”
Meaning: If you keep quiet, you won’t get into trouble.
13. 起きる釘は打たれる。(Okiru kugi wa utareru.)
Translation: “The nail that sticks up gets hammered down.”
Meaning: Avoid attracting attention and blending in with the group.
14. 釈迦に説法。(Shaka ni setsubou.)
Translation: “Preaching to Buddha.”
Meaning: Trying to teach someone who already knows more than you do.
15. 一寸先は闇。(Issun saki wa yami.)
Translation: “One inch ahead is darkness.”
Meaning: The future is uncertain; you never know what lies ahead.
16. 義理人情 (Giri ninjou.)
Translation: “Obligation and human emotions.”
Meaning: Balancing duty or obligation with human feelings and emotions.
17. 習うより慣れろ。(Narau yori narero.)
Translation: “Become accustomed to it rather than learning it.”
Meaning: Practice and experience are more valuable than theory.
18. 三人寄れば文殊の知恵。(Sannin yoreba Monju no chie.)
Translation: “When three people gather, they bring the wisdom of Monju (Bodhisattva of Wisdom).”
Meaning: Collective wisdom is powerful; multiple heads are better than one.
19. 目から鼻へ抜ける。(Me kara hana e nukeru.)
Translation: “From the eyes to the nose.”
Meaning: Something that is obvious or easy to understand.
20. 好きこそ物の上手なれ。(Suki koso mono no jouzu nare.)
Translation: “Liking something makes you good at it.”
Meaning: Enthusiasm and passion lead to skill and mastery.
These proverbs and sayings are deeply rooted in Japanese culture and reflect the values of perseverance, modesty, and appreciation of nature. By understanding these expressions, you can gain a deeper appreciation for Japanese wisdom and the way of life in this fascinating culture.
