Learning a new language is not just about mastering grammar and vocabulary but also about understanding the cultural nuances. Japanese, in particular, is rich in idioms that provide a window into the culture and mindset of its speakers. Here are some common Japanese idioms and their meanings, which can help you sound more like a native speaker.
猿も木から落ちる (saru mo ki kara ochiru)
This idiom translates literally to “even monkeys fall from trees.” It’s used to imply that everyone makes mistakes, even experts in their fields.
プロのシェフでも時々失敗することがある。猿も木から落ちる。
井の中の蛙大海を知らず (i no naka no kawazu taikai wo shirazu)
Literally meaning “a frog in a well does not know the great sea,” this idiom is used to describe someone with a limited outlook or experience.
彼は海外に行ったことがないので、井の中の蛙大海を知らず。
石の上にも三年 (ishi no ue ni mo san-nen)
This translates to “three years on a rock.” It is used to express the idea that persistence will lead to success, even in hard conditions.
彼女は毎日練習を続けた。石の上にも三年だ。
花より団子 (hana yori dango)
Literally, “dumplings over flowers,” this idiom suggests that practical needs are more important than aesthetics or appearances.
彼は見た目より味を重視するタイプだ。花より団子。
口は災いの元 (kuchi wa wazawai no moto)
This means “the mouth is the source of disaster.” It is used to advise that speaking carelessly can lead to trouble or misfortune.
彼はうっかり秘密を漏らしてしまった。口は災いの元。
七転び八起き (nana korobi ya oki)
The literal translation is “fall seven times, stand up eight.” It emphasizes the importance of resilience and never giving up, no matter how many times you fail.
どんなに困難でも諦めない。七転び八起き。
案ずるより産むが易し (anzuru yori umu ga yasushi)
This idiom means “giving birth to a baby is easier than worrying about it.” It suggests that overthinking or worrying about a problem is often worse than dealing with the problem itself.
試験の前に心配しすぎるな。案ずるより産むが易し。
出る杭は打たれる (deru kui wa utareru)
“the stake that sticks out gets hammered down.” This idiom is used to describe the tendency for society to criticize or suppress individuals who stand out or are different.
彼はいつも目立つが、出る杭は打たれる。
見ぬが花 (minu ga hana)
This translates to “not seeing is a flower,” suggesting that things might seem more beautiful when they are left to the imagination.
彼女に会うのは久しぶりだ。見ぬが花かもしれない。
蓼食う虫も好き好き (tade kuu mushi mo suki zuki)
This means “there are even bugs that eat knotweed,” suggesting that everyone has different tastes and preferences.
彼の趣味は変わっているが、蓼食う虫も好き好きだ。
Understanding these idioms not only enriches your vocabulary but also enhances your comprehension of the Japanese language and culture. As you continue your language learning journey, try incorporating these expressions into your conversations for a more authentic and engaging experience.
