Translation guide
This proverb advises adapting to local customs. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 郷に入っては郷に従え, but other expressions exist for fitting in or following local ways.
Expressing the idea that one should follow the customs of the place one is in.
The standard Japanese equivalent of the proverb. Literally 'When you enter a village, obey the village.' Used in both spoken and written contexts.
When traveling abroad, it's important to have the spirit of 'when in Rome, do as the Romans do.'
A variant of the above, using the conditional form 入れば instead of 入っては. Slightly more literary or emphatic.
In a new workplace, as they say, 'when in Rome,' let's first learn how things are done.
A proverb meaning 'Different places, different customs.' It emphasizes that customs vary by location, but doesn't directly command adaptation. More descriptive than prescriptive.
As they say, customs differ from place to place, so it's natural that habits vary by region.
Informally suggesting someone should adapt to the local way of doing things, often in a light-hearted manner.
A shortened, casual version of the proverb. Often used as a verb phrase meaning 'to follow local customs.'
Everyone does it this way here, so let's just go with the flow.
Literally 'read the atmosphere of the place.' This is a broader cultural concept of adapting to the situation, not just customs. Very common in Japanese communication.
Expresses resignation or acceptance: 'We have no choice but to follow local customs.'
The full proverb 郷に入っては郷に従え is well-known but can sound a bit formal or preachy. In casual conversation, it's often shortened to 郷に従う or used with って (e.g., 郷に入っては郷に従えって言うし).
郷に従う specifically refers to following established customs or rules of a place. 空気を読む is broader, meaning to sense the mood or unspoken expectations in any social situation and adapt accordingly. The latter is a key Japanese social skill.
I know it feels weird, but when in Rome, do as the Romans do.
She quickly adapted to the local customs, truly embodying 'when in Rome.'
At a gathering for the first time, it's safest to act by reading the room.
If the rules are different, we just have to do as the locals do.