Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a 'wise saying' is often expressed through specific terms for proverbs, maxims, or famous quotes. The most common and versatile word is ことわざ, which covers traditional proverbs and sayings. Other terms like 格言 and 名言 are used for more formal or famous wise sayings, respectively. The choice depends on the nuance: traditional wisdom, moral maxims, or memorable quotes.
To refer to a short, well-known saying that expresses a common truth or piece of advice, often passed down through generations.
The most common and general term for a proverb or saying. It covers a wide range of traditional wise sayings, including those that are humorous or practical.
Do you know the proverb 'Haste makes waste'?
The kanji form of ことわざ. It is less common in everyday writing but may appear in formal or literary contexts.
To refer to a concise statement of a principle or rule of conduct, often with a moral or philosophical tone.
To refer to a well-known saying by a specific person, often witty or insightful, and not necessarily a traditional proverb.
To emphasize the traditional, ancient origin of a wise saying, often with a sense of folk wisdom.
An old proverb or ancient saying. It highlights the historical depth and traditional nature of the saying.
ことわざ is the broadest term for proverbs and sayings, often traditional and anonymous. 格言 is more formal and implies a moral or philosophical maxim, sometimes attributed. 名言 specifically refers to famous, memorable quotes, usually by known individuals.
'Even monkeys fall from trees' is a proverb.
Japanese proverbs contain deep wisdom.
この諺は古代中国に由来する。
This proverb originates from ancient China.
A formal term for a maxim or aphorism. It often implies a moral or philosophical lesson and is used in serious contexts.
He quoted a famous maxim in his speech.
'Time is money' is a well-known maxim.
A more literary term for a golden saying or precious maxim. It carries a sense of timeless wisdom.
This book contains many golden sayings about life.
A famous quote or wise saying, often attributed to a specific person. It emphasizes the memorability and impact of the words.
Steve Jobs' famous quotes have influenced many people.
I live by this wise saying as my motto.
この古諺は今でも通用する。
This old saying still holds true today.
「己の欲せざるところ、人に施すことなかれ」は格言です。
'Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself' is a maxim.
'Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration' is a famous quote by Edison.