Japanese meaning of 温故知新
Reading:
おんこちしん (onko chishin)
English Translation:
Learning from the past
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
By studying and understanding the past, one can discover new ideas, learn important lessons, and gain fresh insights that are useful in the present or future. For example, reading historical records might help solve modern problems.
Cultural Context:
Originating from Confucian Analects, this phrase is a cornerstone in Japanese education, traditional arts, and craftsmanship. It reflects the cultural value placed on respecting history as a foundation for innovation.
過去の出来事や歴史、昔の知識をしっかりと学ぶことで、現代や将来に役立つ新しい発見や知恵を得ることができる、という意味です。歴史を振り返ることが新しい発想や成長につながるという教訓です。
孔子の『論語』に由来し、日本の教育、伝統芸能、職人文化において重要な考え方とされる。歴史を尊重し、それを革新の土台とする価値観を表す。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
The phrase uses a gerund (“learning”) as the subject, and the preposition “from” introduces the source of knowledge.
Trap for English Speakers
This phrase does not only refer to historical study. It can also be used for learning from one’s personal past experiences.
Example
Basic Example
歴史を学ぶことは温故知新につながる。
Studying history is learning from the past.
Applied Example
古い戦術を見直して得た新しい発想。温故知新が勝利を呼び込む。
Reviewing old tactics brought new ideas — learning from the past brought them victory.