Translation guide
The English word "wisdom" covers a range of concepts from practical knowledge and good judgment to deep philosophical insight. In Japanese, different words are used depending on the nuance.
The ability to make sensible decisions based on experience and knowledge.
The most common and versatile word for wisdom, covering practical intelligence, knowledge, and resourcefulness.
He has a lot of wisdom about life.
Emphasizes discretion, prudence, and the ability to distinguish right from wrong in practical matters.
Refers to cleverness or smartness, often in a practical or intellectual sense. More about intelligence than deep wisdom.
I'm always impressed by her wisdom (cleverness).
Profound understanding of life, truth, or the nature of things.
Connotes superior, often intellectual or spiritual wisdom; used for great thinkers or profound insights.
Wisdom passed down through generations, often in the form of sayings or traditional knowledge.
Literally 'words of wisdom', used for proverbs or wise sayings.
Used in fixed expressions or when referring to wisdom as an abstract ideal.
This book is full of useful wisdom.
彼は分別のある判断を下した。
He made a wise (prudent) decision.
The wisdom of ancient Greek philosophers still shines today.
Often written with the older kanji 叡智, implying deep, almost divine wisdom. Similar to 英知 but can feel more literary or spiritual.
His words convey deep wisdom.
Abstract noun meaning knowledge or wisdom, often used in compounds or philosophical contexts.
the pursuit of wisdom/knowledge
My grandmother always shared words of wisdom with me.
Proverb or maxim; a concise saying expressing a general truth or piece of advice.
This proverb originates from ancient Chinese wisdom.
Lesson or moral teaching, often derived from experience or a story.
I gained a lot of wisdom (lessons) from this failure.
Idiom meaning 'to rack one's brains' or 'to pool one's wisdom' to solve a problem.
Let's put our heads together and come up with a solution.
Literally 'ring of wisdom', refers to a puzzle ring or a brain teaser; metaphorically a complex problem.
This problem is like a puzzle.
the wisdom of humankind
賢さ (kashikosa) means smartness or cleverness, and can sound like 'intelligence' rather than 'wisdom'. Use it only when the context is about being sharp or quick-witted, not for deep understanding or life experience.
She shared her wisdom with the younger generation.