Proverbs
Japanese meaning of 為せば成る
Voice sample:
なせばなる (Naseba naru)
English Translation:
If you do it, it will be done / Where there's a will, there's a way
Scene: Encouragement Determination
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
If you really try, you can achieve almost anything.
日本語で読む
やる気を持って取り組めば、どんなことでも実現できるという意味。
Cultural Context:
It may also be used by teachers or coaches to cheer on students and players.
日本語で読む
先生や監督が、生徒や選手をはげますときに使うこともあります。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
為せば is the ば conditional of 為す (to do), and 成る means "to be achieved."
日本語で読む
「為せば」は「為す（する）」に「ば」がついた形、「成る」は「実現する」という意味です。
Trap for English Speakers
為す and 成る both start with "na" but are different verbs: "do" and "be achieved."
日本語で読む
「為す」と「成る」は音が似ていますが、「する」と「実現する」という別の動詞です。
Example
Example 1Basic Example
毎日少しずつ練習すれば、きっと泳げるようになるよ。為せば成る！
If you practice a little every day, you'll surely learn to swim. Where there's a will, there's a way!
Example 2Applied Example
高い城壁を前に弱音を吐く忍びの弟子に、師匠は「為せば成る」と言った。三日後、弟子は壁を登りきった。
The ninja master told his student, who was losing heart at the high castle wall, "If you do it, it will be done." Three days later, the student climbed it.
Quick check
Meaning
What does 「為せば成る」 mean?