Japanese meaning of 光陰矢の如し
Reading:
こういんやのごとし (kōin ya no gotoshi)
English Translation:
Time flies
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Time passes swiftly and irretrievably.
Cultural Context:
Sino-Japanese classical phrase from Chinese literature; common in graduation speeches, New-Year reflections, and study mottos.
時間は矢のように速く過ぎ去り戻らないということ。
中国古典由来の漢語表現。卒業式の訓辞、年頭の所感、学習標語などで頻出。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• 光陰 (kōin) = literally “light and shade,” meaning “time” (noun)
• 矢の如し (ya no gotoshi) = classical simile structure “like an arrow,” emphasizing swiftness
Noun phrase + の + classical simile, expressing the rapid passage of time.
Trap for English Speakers
Literal meaning may confuse learners; it signals how quickly time passes.
Example
Basic Example
楽しい時間はすぐに過ぎ去る、光陰矢の如しだ。
Time flies—happy moments end quickly.
Applied Example
決勝戦はあっという間に終わった、光陰矢の如しだな。
The final match ended in a flash—time flies.