Japanese proverbs - Definition and Overview

Japanese proverbs include 四字熟語 (Yojijukugo Four-character idioms), ことわざ (Kotowaza proverbs) and 慣用句 (Kanyōku Common idioms). Japanese love proverbs and use them in everyday life frequently.

Because traditional Japanese culture was tied to agriculture, many Japanese proverbs are derived from agricultural customs and practices. Many of them contain commentary on the behavior of women as well as natural phenomena. Some are from the Go game and Buddhism and many four-character phrases are from Chinese philosophy.

The heavy employment of proverbs enables Japanese language to be compact, quick and simple. Evidence might be found in Japanese animation and manga. The huge popularity in instant messaging by cellular phones can be due to this.

A list of Japaneses proverbs can be found at .

See also

• Japanese culture
• Japanese language

External links

Wikiquote has a collection of quotations related to:

Japanese proverbs

• Japanese Language Kotowaza - proverbs & sayings (http://www.thejapanesepage.com/kotowaza.htm) - an excellent article about Japanese proverbs and saying
• Words of Wisdom OK312 「英⇔日」対照・名言ことわざ辞典 (http://www.ok312.com/)
• http://www.sf.airnet.ne.jp/swata/swkoto.html (in Japanese)