Japanese Famous Classical Idioms: 73 Expressions – Pronunciations, Meanings, and Explanations

Japanese traditional culture is deeply interwoven with classical idioms—expressions that condense centuries of wisdom, lessons, and cultural values. In this article, you will find each idiom presented with its correct pronunciation (displayed in romanized form), meaning, and a detailed explanation of its background. Whether in daily conversation or the business world, mastering these expressions can enrich your communication and provide profound insight into traditional wisdom.

Famous Classical Idioms List

一を聞いて十を知る [Ichio Kiite Juuto Shiru]

Meaning: Inferring much from a single piece of information.
Explanation: This proverb praises the ability to discern the essence or background from minimal clues, highlighting a keen sense of intuition and insight.

一念天に通ず [Ichinen Ten ni Tsūzu]

Meaning: A steadfast heart reaches the heavens.
Explanation: It teaches that a determined and sincere resolve can achieve the seemingly impossible, emphasizing the power of unwavering faith and effort.

一石を投ずる [Isseki wo Tōzuru]

Meaning: A small act can spark a big impact.
Explanation: Even a minor action can trigger significant change or ignite debate, underlining the potential of seemingly insignificant gestures.

三十六計逃げるに如かず [Sanjūroku Kei Nigeru ni Shikazu]

Meaning: Of all strategies, retreat is sometimes the best.
Explanation: In dangerous or unfavorable situations, knowing when to withdraw can be the wisest decision—a lesson in prudence and self-preservation.

亀の甲より年の劫 [Kame no Kō yori Toshi no Gō]

Meaning: The passage of time carries more weight than even a turtle’s shell.
Explanation: The challenges and changes brought by time outweigh physical strength, underscoring the inevitability and significance of life’s experiences.

亀は万年 [Kame wa Mannen]

Meaning: As long-lived as a turtle.
Explanation: Since turtles have long been symbols of longevity, this expression is used to wish health and a long life.

五十歩百歩 [Gojippo Hyappo]

Meaning: No significant difference exists between the two.
Explanation: This idiom compares two nearly identical situations, suggesting that any minor differences are ultimately inconsequential.

五里霧中 [Gori Muchū]

Meaning: Completely lost in a fog.
Explanation: Just as one loses direction in a dense fog, this phrase describes a state of utter confusion where nothing seems clear.

井の中の蛙大海を知らず [I no Naka no Kawazu Taikai wo Shirazu]

Meaning: A frog in a well knows nothing of the ocean.
Explanation: It warns against a narrow perspective, urging one to step beyond familiar confines to understand the vast world.

他山の石 [Tazan no Ishi]

Meaning: Using others’ failures as your own lesson.
Explanation: By observing the mistakes or shortcomings of others, one can learn and improve, turning external experiences into personal wisdom.

千里眼 [Senrigan]

Meaning: The ability to see far beyond.
Explanation: This expression is used to describe someone with extraordinary foresight or insight, capable of envisioning distant outcomes.

去る者は追わず [Saru Mono wa Owazu]

Meaning: Do not pursue those who depart.
Explanation: It advises that one should not force someone or something that has already left, encouraging acceptance and moving forward.

可もなく不可もなし [Ka mo naku Fuka mo Nashi]

Meaning: Neither particularly good nor bad.
Explanation: This neutral expression describes a state or quality that is moderate, without any outstanding features or flaws.

四面楚歌 [Shimen Soka]

Meaning: Surrounded by enemies on all sides.
Explanation: Originating from historical warfare, this phrase illustrates the despair of being isolated with only adversaries around.

国破れて山河あり [Kuni Yaburete Sanga Ari]

Meaning: Even when a nation falls, the mountains and rivers remain.
Explanation: This proverb reflects on the transient nature of human endeavors contrasted with the enduring presence of nature and history.

塞翁が馬 [Saiō ga Uma]

Meaning: A blessing in disguise (or vice versa).
Explanation: Life’s twists and turns may turn misfortune into fortune or vice versa, reminding us of the unpredictable nature of fate.

壁に耳あり [Kabe ni Mimi Ari]

Meaning: Even walls have ears.
Explanation: A caution that secrets may not remain confidential, as unintended listeners could be present in unexpected places.

大器晩成 [Taiki Bansei]

Meaning: Great talents mature slowly.
Explanation: True talent takes time to develop; those destined for greatness often require years of nurturing before they shine.

心ここに有らず [Kokoro Koko ni Arazu]

Meaning: Not fully present or focused.
Explanation: This idiom describes a state of distraction or inattentiveness, where one’s mind is elsewhere even when physically present.

悪事千里を行く [Akuji Senri wo Yuku]

Meaning: Evil deeds spread quickly.
Explanation: No matter how well hidden, wrongful actions eventually come to light, serving as a warning against unethical behavior.

捲土重来 [Kendochōrai]

Meaning: A comeback after defeat.
Explanation: Even after a failure, one can regain momentum and succeed, embodying the spirit of perseverance and renewal.

明鏡止水 [Meikyō Shisui]

Meaning: A mind as clear as a still mirror.
Explanation: This phrase describes a state of calm and clarity, where one can observe and judge situations without the interference of distractions.

春眠暁を覚えず [Shunmin Gyō wo Oboezu]

Meaning: In spring, one sleeps so soundly as not to notice the dawn.
Explanation: The gentle warmth and serenity of spring lull one into such deep sleep that even the break of day goes unnoticed.

朝三暮四 [Chōsan Boshi]

Meaning: Changing numbers but not the essence.
Explanation: This idiom criticizes superficial changes that do not alter the underlying reality, often used to highlight deceptive or trivial adjustments.