Japanese meaning of 学問に王道なし
Reading:
がくもんにおうどうなし (Gakumon ni ōdō nashi)
English Translation:
There is no royal road to learning
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
There are no shortcuts to learning or true mastery. This proverb emphasizes that deep understanding comes only through steady, honest effort, not by trying to find an easy or quick way out.
Cultural Context:
Underscores the high value Japanese society places on diligence in education.
学問の世界に近道や抜け道はなく、地道な努力や継続が本当の力や知識につながる、という教えです。安易な方法を探すことへの戒めでもあります。
日本では努力と学びを重視する文化が強く表れることわざ。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
Uses topic marker “に” and negative “なし” to assert absence of shortcuts.
Trap for English Speakers
“Royal road” is metaphorical, not about monarchy.
Example
Basic Example
試験勉強は地道な暗記と理解の繰り返し。学問に王道なしだ。
Studying for the exam meant steady repetition and understanding — there is no royal road to learning.
Applied Example
「近道はないぞ。学問に王道なしだ。」
There’s no shortcut. There is no royal road to learning.