noun
old saying; old expression
Refers to a proverb, maxim, or fixed phrase from the past, often with a traditional or literary flavor.
祖母はよく古言を口にして、私たちに知恵を授けてくれた。
My grandmother often used old sayings to impart wisdom to us.
noun
archaic word; ancient language
Used for words or expressions that are no longer in common use, or for the language of a past era. Often encountered in classical literature or historical studies.
この古文書には多くの古言が使われていて、現代人には理解しにくい。
This ancient document uses many archaic words, making it hard for modern people to understand.
Compound of 古 (old) and 言 (word/saying). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the meaning is transparent from its components.