Japanese idioms and proverbs offer a fascinating insight into the culture and values of Japan. These phrases often contain wisdom passed down through generations, and learning them can enrich your understanding of the language and its speakers. Here are some commonly used Japanese idioms and proverbs, along with their meanings and example sentences.
猿も木から落ちる (Saru mo ki kara ochiru)
This idiom translates to “Even monkeys fall from trees.” It means that everyone makes mistakes, even experts in their fields.
彼は数学のプロだが、猿も木から落ちると言う通り、時々間違えることもある。
井の中の蛙大海を知らず (I no naka no kawazu taikai o shirazu)
This proverb means “A frog in a well does not know the great sea.” It’s used to describe someone with a limited outlook or experience.
彼女はずっと同じ小さな町で生活しているから、井の中の蛙大海を知らずだ。
花より団子 (Hana yori dango)
Literally translating to “Dumplings over flowers,” this idiom suggests that practical needs are more important than aesthetics or appearances.
彼は見た目より機能を重視するタイプだから、花より団子の考え方だね。
石の上にも三年 (Ishi no ue ni mo san nen)
This proverb translates to “Three years on a rock.” It means that perseverance will eventually lead to success, no matter how tough the conditions.
新しい事業を始めたばかりで成果が見えないが、石の上にも三年、辛抱しなければならない。
七転び八起き (Nanakorobi yaoki)
Meaning “Fall seven times, stand up eight,” this idiom encourages resilience and never giving up, despite repeated failures.
彼は何度失敗しても諦めず、七転び八起きの精神で頑張っている。
口は災いの元 (Kuchi wa wazawai no moto)
The literal translation is “The mouth is the source of disaster.” This proverb advises caution in speech, as careless talk can lead to trouble.
彼は何でも話しすぎるから、口は災いの元とよく言われる。
案ずるより産むが易し (Anzuru yori umu ga yasushi)
This idiom translates to “Giving birth is easier than worrying about it.” It suggests that often, doing something is not as difficult as fearing or dreading it.
試験のことで悩むより、実際に受けてみた方が案ずるより産むが易し。
覆水盆に返らず (Fukusui bon ni kaerazu)
Meaning “Spilt water will not return to the tray,” this proverb highlights the irreversible nature of certain actions.
一度言ったことは取り消せない。覆水盆に返らずだ。
猫に小判 (Neko ni koban)
The proverb “Gold coins to a cat” implies that giving something valuable to someone who can’t appreciate it is a waste.
彼に高価なワインを贈っても、猫に小判だろう。
蛙の子は蛙 (Kaeru no ko wa kaeru)
This idiom, meaning “The child of a frog is a frog,” suggests that children inherit their parents’ characteristics or that things do not change their nature.
彼の息子もまた優れた音楽家になった。やはり、蛙の子は蛙だ。
Understanding these idioms and proverbs not only improves your language skills but also gives you deeper insights into Japanese culture and thought processes. As you continue to learn Japanese, try to incorporate these expressions into your conversations for more natural and culturally aware communication.
