Language/Japanese/Vocabulary/Idiomatic-Expressions

Japanese Vocabulary - Idiomatic expressions

Hi Japanese learners! 😊
In this lesson, we will learn some of the most common idiomatic expressions in Japanese. Idioms are an important part of any language, and they can help you to sound more natural when speaking. Let's get started!

Introduction

Idioms are phrases or expressions that have a figurative meaning. They are usually not taken literally, and they often have a cultural background. In Japanese, there are many idioms that come from traditional stories, proverbs, and even from popular culture. Knowing these expressions can help you to understand the language better and to sound more natural when speaking.

Common Idioms

「一期一会」 (Ichi-go ichi-e)

This expression means "one time, one meeting". It is used to express the idea that every moment is unique and should be treasured. This phrase comes from the tea ceremony, where each gathering is considered special and should be appreciated.

「猿も木から落ちる」 (Saru mo ki kara ochiru)

This expression means "even monkeys fall from trees". It is used to describe someone who makes a mistake, even though they are usually very skilled. This phrase comes from a proverb about how even the most experienced people can make mistakes.

「案ずるより産むが易し」 (Anzuru yori umu ga yasushi)

This expression means "it is easier to give birth than to worry". It is used to encourage someone to take action instead of worrying too much. This phrase comes from a proverb about how worrying does not solve anything.

「鳴かず飛ばず」 (Nakazu tobazu)

This expression means "neither crowing nor flying". It is used to describe someone who is not doing anything. This phrase comes from a traditional story about a rooster who was too lazy to crow or fly.

「百聞は一見にしかず」 (Hyaku mon wa ikken ni shikazu)

This expression means "seeing is better than hearing a hundred times". It is used to emphasize the importance of experience. This phrase comes from a proverb about how seeing something with your own eyes is more valuable than hearing about it.

Practice

Now let's practice using these idioms in context. Here is a dialogue between two friends:

• Person 1: 「今日は一期一会だから、楽しんでいこう！」 (Kyou wa ichi-go ichi-e dakara, tanoshinde ikou!) (Let's enjoy today since it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!)
• Person 2: 「そうだね！猿も木から落ちるから、失敗しても大丈夫だよ！」 (Sou da ne! Saru mo ki kara ochiru kara, shippai shite mo daijoubu da yo!) (That's right! Even monkeys fall from trees, so it's okay if we make mistakes!)
• Person 1: 「そうだね！案ずるより産むが易しだから、行動しよう！」 (Sou da ne! Anzuru yori umu ga yasushi dakara, koudou shiyou!) (That's true! It's easier to give birth than to worry, so let's take action!)
• Person 2: 「そうだね！鳴かず飛ばずなんて、あまりしたくないからね！」 (Sou da ne! Nakazu tobazu nante, amari shitaku nai kara ne!) (That's right! I don't want to be like the rooster who neither crows nor flies!)
• Person 1: 「そうだね！百聞は一見にしかずだから、実際にやってみよう！」 (Sou da ne! Hyaku mon wa ikken ni shikazu dakara, jissai ni yatte miyou!) (That's true! Seeing is better than hearing a hundred times, so let's try it out for real!)

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed learning about Japanese idioms! Remember, the best way to learn a language is to practice speaking it with native speakers. To improve your Japanese Vocabulary, you can also use the Polyglot Club website. Find native speakers and ask them any questions!

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