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Proverbs

Japanese meaning of 転ばぬ先の杖

Reading:

ころばぬさきのつえ (Korobanu saki no tsue)

English Translation:

Better safe than sorry / Look before you leap

Emotion: Scene:

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:

It’s wise to prepare for potential problems before they arise. Just as you take a cane before you fall, planning ahead and taking precautions helps avoid trouble. The proverb emphasizes the value of foresight and prevention in daily life.
日本語で読む
転ばないためにはあらかじめ杖を用意しておくべき、つまり何事も事前の備えが重要だという教えです。予防や準備の大切さ、慎重さを促すことわざです。

Cultural Context:

Highlights the Japanese value of risk management and planning ahead.
日本語で読む
日本人の「備えあれば憂いなし」の価値観を反映しています。

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

Uses a future-oriented negative verb form and noun for the metaphor.
日本語で読む
未然形の否定動詞と名詞の組み合わせ。

Trap for English Speakers

Literal translation might be unclear; it's not about walking aids, but about preparation.
日本語で読む
直訳すると杖の話に思えるが、備えを指す比喩表現。

Example

Example 1Basic Example

  1. 資料は二部印刷、データはクラウドに保存。「転ばぬ先の杖」で会議は無事に終わった。

    Two printed copies and a cloud backup—better safe than sorry, and the meeting went smoothly.

Example 2Applied Example

  1. 「替えのラケット、持ってきた？」転ばぬ先の杖、その一振りで流れが変わった。

    “Did you bring a spare racket?” Better safe than sorry; that swing changed the momentum.

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Quick check

Meaning

What does 「転ばぬ先の杖」 mean?

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