先人
Meanings
1
predecessor; pioneer; ancestor
Refers to people who came before and whose work or example paved the way; used in formal, historical, or respectful contexts.
There is much to learn from the wisdom of our predecessors.
I am grateful for the efforts of the pioneers in this field.
Usage patterns
- 先人の教えに学ぶto learn from the teachings of one's predecessors
We should learn from the teachings of our predecessors as we consider the path ahead.
- 先人の知恵を借りるto draw on the wisdom of one's predecessors
When facing a difficult problem, it's also important to draw on the wisdom of those who came before.
- 先人の功績を称えるto honor the achievements of one's predecessors
This monument was built to honor the achievements of those who came before us.