Translation guide
The idea that knowledge gained only from books, without practical experience or real-world application, is not truly useful.
To describe knowledge that is purely theoretical and not applicable to real life.
To criticize someone who has memorized facts but lacks understanding or common sense.
Emphasizes an overemphasis on knowledge, often at the expense of practical skills or wisdom.
今の教育は知識偏重で、実践力が育たない。
Today's education is all about useless book learning and doesn't develop practical skills.
Do not translate 'useless book learning' directly as 無駄な本の学習. It sounds unnatural and does not convey the idiomatic meaning.
Literally 'armchair theory', this is the most common way to describe ideas that work on paper but not in reality.
彼の提案は机上の空論に過ぎない。
His proposal is nothing but useless book learning.
Refers to someone who has a license but no practical experience, often used metaphorically for any 'paper qualification' without real skill.
彼は資格はあるけど、実務経験がないペーパードライバーだ。
He has the qualification but is a paper driver with no practical experience.
A proverb meaning 'swimming practice on tatami mats' – learning without real practice. Literary and somewhat old-fashioned.
いくら本を読んでも、畳の上の水練だ。
No matter how many books you read, it's just useless book learning.
Literally 'bookworm', often used affectionately but can imply someone who reads without applying knowledge.
彼は本の虫だけど、社会に出たら役に立たない。
He's a bookworm, but his knowledge is useless in the real world.