Traditional Japanese Proverbs and Sayings

Traditional Japanese Proverbs and Sayings

It is foolish to deal with a fool.

One cannot quarrel without an opponent.

Rained on ground hardens (Adversity builds character).

Talk about things of tomorrow and the mice inside the ceiling laugh (Nobody knows what tomorrow might bring).

If you make a mistake, don't hesitate to correct it.

Due to the presence of fools wise people stand out.

The more stupid the child the dearer it is.

A samurai, even when he has not eaten, uses his toothpick.

A wise man does not lose his way, a brave man does not fear.

To gamble as the dice fall.

If eating poison finish up the plate (or, If eating poison don't forget to lick the plate)..

To draw water into one's own rice field

Feed a dog for three days and it is gratefull for three years. Feed a cat for three years and it forgets after three days.

With the first glass a man drinks wine, with the second glass the wine drinks the wine, with the third glass the wine drinks the man.

Good things, many devils.

Time flies like an arrow.

The country is in ruins, and there are still mountains and rivers.

Repentance never comes first.

The eyes speak as much as the mouth.(love needs no words)

The eyes are the mirror of the soul.

Heart rather than appearance.

Traditional Japanese Proverbs and Sayings

Return from Japanese Proverbs to Proverbs Page