良薬は口に苦し [Ryōyaku wa Kuchi ni Nigashi]
Meaning: Good medicine tastes bitter.
Explanation: Often the most effective remedies or advice are initially unpleasant, yet they lead to long-term benefits.
虎の威を借る狐 [Tora no I wo Karu Kitsune]
Meaning: A fox borrowing the might of a tiger.
Explanation: Describes someone who leverages another’s power or authority to intimidate others, despite lacking their own strength.
虎の巻 [Tora no Maki]
Meaning: A secret manual or cheat sheet.
Explanation: Refers to a treasured compendium of specialized knowledge or strategies that provide a competitive edge.
虎穴に入らずんば虎児を得ず [Koketsu ni Irazunba Koji wo Ezu]
Meaning: Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Explanation: This proverb underscores that achieving great success often requires taking risks and facing challenges head-on.
虎視眈眈 [Koshi Tantan]
Meaning: Watching keenly for the right opportunity.
Explanation: It portrays a vigilant attitude where one is always ready to seize a fleeting chance.
蛇の道は蛇 [Hebi no Michi wa Hebi]
Meaning: Those in the same field know its ways best.
Explanation: Indicates that insiders or professionals understand the nuances and tactics of their trade better than outsiders.
蛇足 [Dasoku]
Meaning: Unnecessary embellishment.
Explanation: Adding extra details when none are needed can spoil the overall clarity or impact of an explanation.
蛍雪の功 [Keisetsu no Kō]
Meaning: The rewards of diligent effort.
Explanation: Reminiscent of studying by candlelight, this idiom celebrates the achievement that comes through sustained hard work.
血で血を洗う [Chi de Chi wo Arau]
Meaning: Blood for blood—a cycle of revenge.
Explanation: This stark expression warns of the relentless and destructive nature of vengeance when retribution spirals out of control.
襟を正す [Eri wo Tadasu]
Meaning: To reform one’s conduct.
Explanation: A call to self-discipline and reflection, urging individuals to correct their behavior and attitudes.
覆水盆に返らず [Fukusui Bon ni Kaerazu]
Meaning: What’s done is done.
Explanation: Once an event has occurred, it cannot be undone; the proverb advises against futile attempts to reverse past mistakes.
逃がした魚は大きい [Nigashita Sakana wa Ōkī]
Meaning: The one that got away seems the biggest.
Explanation: Reflecting on the human tendency to idealize lost opportunities, it serves as a gentle reminder to value what is present rather than lamenting what’s lost.
逆鱗に触れる [Gekirin ni Fureru]
Meaning: To incur someone’s wrath.
Explanation: By unwittingly touching on a sensitive subject, one risks provoking severe disapproval or anger from another.
酒は百薬の長 [Sake wa Hyakuyaku no Chō]
Meaning: Moderate drinking is the best of remedies.
Explanation: Traditionally, a little alcohol was believed to be beneficial for health—a notion that praises balance, though it warns against excess.
間髪を容れず [Kanpatsu wo Ireruzu]
Meaning: Without even a moment’s delay.
Explanation: This phrase describes a situation where immediate action is required, leaving no room for hesitation.
雨垂れ石を穿つ [Amadare Ishi wo Ugatsu]
Meaning: Dripping water wears away the stone.
Explanation: Even the smallest, persistent effort can eventually overcome the hardest obstacles, a timeless lesson in perseverance.
青は藍より出でて藍より青し [Ao wa Ai yori Idete Ai yori Aoshi]
Meaning: The pupil surpasses the master.
Explanation: This celebrates the moment when a student not only learns from a teacher but eventually excels beyond the mentor’s achievements.
頭角を現す [Tōkaku wo Arawasu]
Meaning: To emerge as a standout talent.
Explanation: Over time, hidden abilities and potential become apparent, leading to recognition and success.
食指が動く [Shokushi ga Ugoku]
Meaning: Appetite is whetted.
Explanation: Whether literally referring to the allure of food or metaphorically describing an eagerness for something, this phrase captures the stir of anticipation.
馬耳東風 [Baji Tōfū]
Meaning: Words falling on deaf ears.
Explanation: Mirroring the image of wind passing by a horse’s ears, this expression criticizes those who ignore advice or meaningful speech.
鶏鳴狗盗 [Keimei Kutō]
Meaning: Petty misdeeds committed by the insignificant.
Explanation: A derogatory remark about individuals who engage in small-scale mischief, highlighting low moral standards.
鶴の一声 [Tsuru no Hitokoe]
Meaning: A single word from an authority that changes everything.
Explanation: This idiom emphasizes the tremendous influence wielded by a respected figure’s concise remark.
鶴は千年亀は万年 [Tsuru wa Sennen, Kame wa Mannen]
Meaning: Cranes live a thousand years, turtles a ten thousand years.
Explanation: Symbolizing longevity and endurance, this expression is used to wish health, happiness, and a long life.
This article has showcased 73 classical idioms that encapsulate the rich heritage and wisdom of Japanese tradition. These expressions offer valuable insights for everyday communication, professional interactions, and personal growth. Embracing such timeless wisdom not only deepens your cultural understanding but also enhances your ability to communicate effectively and persuasively.
Reference: weblio
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