One of the most charming aspects of any language is the wisdom encapsulated in its idioms, and Japanese is no exception.
Many Japanese proverbs draw inspiration from nature, reflecting not only a deep connection with the environment but also timeless life lessons.
In this post, we’ll explore some classic Japanese idioms and their English equivalents.
落花枝に帰らず破鏡再び照らさず (らっか えだに かえらず はきょう ふたたび てらさず)
This beautiful saying combines two distinct proverbs:
• 落花枝に帰らず (“The fallen petals will never return to the branch”): This refers to how, once something is done, it cannot be undone—just like fallen petals cannot reattach themselves to the tree.
• 破鏡再び照らさず (“A broken mirror cannot be made to shine again”): This emphasizes that certain situations are irreversible, no matter how hard you try.
Both parts of this idiom convey the idea that there’s no point in regretting things that are already done. The English equivalent would be: “There’s no use in crying over spilled milk.”
Takeaway: Don’t dwell on the past; instead, focus on what’s ahead.
鯉の滝登り (こいの たきのぼり)
Literally translated as “a koi swimming up a waterfall,” this proverb represents perseverance and determination.
It evokes the image of a koi (carp) overcoming a seemingly impossible obstacle by swimming against the current to ascend a waterfall.
This is often used to express the notion of overcoming great challenges.
Interestingly, there is a related idiom: 及ばぬ鯉の滝登り (“A koi unable to swim up the waterfall”), which implies that some tasks are so difficult that success is nearly impossible.
Yet, there’s a clever play on words here, as 恋 (こい) can also mean “love.”
Thus, this idiom can also refer to unrequited love—a love that cannot be fulfilled, no matter how hard one tries.
Takeaway: Success requires effort and persistence, but some battles—like one-sided love—might be unwinnable.
Nature’s Influence on Japanese Idioms
As we’ve seen, nature is a powerful source of inspiration for Japanese idioms.
Whether it’s the fleeting beauty of falling blossoms or the relentless struggle of a koi fish, these sayings remind us that life is a balance between acceptance and perseverance.
By reflecting on these proverbs, we can find both comfort and motivation. Just as nature follows its course, so too do the events of our lives.
Some things can’t be undone, while other challenges may seem insurmountable, but with patience and determination, we may yet overcome them.
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