33. Japanese idioms and proverbs

The Japanese language is rich in idioms and proverbs, which reflect the philosophy and wisdom of Japanese culture. In this chapter, we'll explore 33 of these expressions and proverbs to help deepen your understanding of basic Japanese.

1.石の上にも三年 (Ishi no ue ni mo san nen)
This expression literally means "three years upon a stone". It is used to express the idea that persistence leads to success.

2.七転び八起き (Nana korobi ya oki)
This expression means "fall seven times, get up eight". It's a proverb that encourages resilience and persistence in the face of adversity.

3.知らぬが仏 (Shiranu ga hotoke)
This expression means "not knowing is Buddha". It is used to express the idea that ignorance is bliss, or that sometimes it's better not to know.

4.蓼食う虫も好き好き (Tade kuu mushi mo sukizuki)
This expression means "even insects that eat knotweed have their preferences". It is used to express the idea that each person has their own tastes and preferences.

5.一期一会 (Ichi-go ichi-e)
This expression means "once, an encounter". It is used to express the idea that each encounter is unique and should be valued.

6.三日坊主 (Mikka bouzu)
This expression means "monk of three days". It is used to describe someone who cannot keep a commitment or who gives up easily.

7.猿も木から落ちる (Saru mo ki kara ochiru)
This expression means "even monkeys fall from trees". It is used to express the idea that everyone makes mistakes, no matter how skilled they are.

8.虎穴に入らずんば虎子を得ず (Koketsu ni irazunba koji wo ezu)
This expression means "if you don't go into the tiger's den, you can't get its cubs". It is used to express the idea that nothing can be achieved without taking risks.

9.井の中の蛙大海を知らず (I no naka no kawazu taikai wo shirazu)
This expression means "the frog in the well does not know the great ocean". It is used to describe someone with a limited view of the world.

10.枯れ木も山の賑わい (Kareki mo yama no nigiwai)
This expression means "even a dead tree contributes to the animation of the mountain". It is used to express the idea that everything and everyone has its value.

These are just a few of the many Japanese idioms and proverbs you'll encounter as you learn Japanese. Each offers a unique insight into Japanese culture and philosophy, helping to make your language study deeper and more enriching. By incorporating these expressions into your vocabulary, you will not only improve your language skills, but also gain a better understanding of the Japanese way of thinking and living.

We will continue to explore more expressions and proverbs in subsequent chapters, so that you can continue to expand your knowledge and appreciation of the Japanese language. Remember, the key to learning Japanese - or any language - is practice and persistence. Don't be afraid to make mistakes and keep trying. As the Japanese proverb says: "Nana korobi ya oki" - "fall down seven times, get up eight".

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