Proverb / Kotowaza
芸は道によって賢し
In any specialized field, those who follow that path are the most knowledgeable.
Arts are wise according to the path
Quick Answer
In any specialized field, those who follow that path are the most knowledgeable.
- Literal Image
- Arts are wise according to the path
- Closest Equivalent
- Every man to his trade.
- How to Use It
- Used when acknowledging the superior knowledge of a professional or when advising someone to consult an expert rather than trying to handle a specialized task themselves.
Meaning
This proverb emphasizes that specialists possess wisdom and techniques in their specific fields that far surpass those of outsiders. It suggests that for any particular craft or profession, one should defer to the expertise of those who have dedicated themselves to that discipline.
Literal Image
Arts are wise according to the path
Equivalent Proverbs
Every man to his trade.
Suggests everyone is best at their own specific work.
The cobbler should stick to his last.
Advises focusing on one's own area of expertise.
How to Use It
Used when acknowledging the superior knowledge of a professional or when advising someone to consult an expert rather than trying to handle a specialized task themselves.
Tone
Formal and respectful of expertise.
Examples
コンピューターの修理はプロに任せるべきだ。芸は道によって賢しというように、専門家の知識は素人とは段違いだ。
Computer repairs should be left to a pro. As they say, arts are wise according to the path; a specialist's knowledge is on a completely different level from an amateur's.
料理人が包丁の扱いについて語ると説得力が違う。芸は道によって賢しとはこういうことだ。
When a chef talks about handling a knife, it has a different level of persuasiveness. This is exactly what is meant by 'arts are wise according to the path'.
法律の問題は弁護士に相談するのが一番。芸は道によって賢しで、プロの判断に勝るものはない。
It is best to consult a lawyer for legal issues. Since professionals are wisest in their own fields, nothing beats a professional's judgment.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Uses the classical 'kashikoshi' (wise) adjective form and specialized vocabulary like 'gei' (art/skill) and 'michi' (path/specialty).
芸
げい / gei
art; craft; skill
道
みち / michi
path; way; field of specialty
賢し
かしこし / kashikoshi
wise; clever (classical form)
Usage Profile
Usage note: Ensure you are using it to respect someone's expertise, not to mock your own ignorance.
Misread Risk
While 'michi' literally means 'road', in this context it refers to a professional discipline or career path.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
The term 'gei' (芸) refers to arts, techniques, or skills, while 'michi' (道) refers to a specialized path or field. It describes how those who have accumulated experience in a specific field naturally possess deep knowledge and wisdom that outsiders cannot match.
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Source Note
Where did this entry get its data from? The reference links are listed below. To understand how to read this section, see Data Sources.