Translation guide
A proverb meaning that you cannot achieve anything unless you take risks. In Japanese, there are several equivalent proverbs and expressions that convey the same idea.
Express the idea that taking risks is necessary for success
A classical proverb literally meaning 'If you do not enter the tiger's den, you will not get the tiger cub.' It is the most direct equivalent, often used in formal or written contexts.
新しい事業を始めるのは怖いけど、虎穴に入らずんば虎子を得ずだ。
Starting a new business is scary, but nothing ventured, nothing gained.
A more colloquial phrase meaning 'Go for it even if you might fail.' It encourages taking a chance without overthinking. Suitable for casual conversation.
告白するのは緊張するけど、当たって砕けろだ！
I'm nervous about confessing my feelings, but nothing ventured, nothing gained!
A modern, straightforward expression meaning 'If you don't take risks, there is no return.' Common in business or self-help contexts.
投資の世界では、リスクを取らなければリターンはないと言われる。
In the world of investment, they say nothing ventured, nothing gained.
A literal translation of the English proverb, meaning 'If you don't take risks, you can't gain anything.' It is understandable but less idiomatic than the classical proverb.
危険を冒さなければ何も得られないと分かっていても、行動に移すのは難しい。
Even though I know nothing ventured, nothing gained, it's hard to take action.
A proverb meaning 'Seeds that are not sown will not grow.' It emphasizes that effort and initiative are required to achieve results. Less common but still used.
蒔かぬ種は生えぬというから、まずは応募してみよう。
They say nothing ventured, nothing gained, so let's apply first.