Japanese Proverbs to Recommend Restraint

Excessive or immoderate drinking and eating.

Remaining silent is sometimes more valuable than speaking eloquently.

Something redundant or unnecessary that provides no benefit and may even spoil the result.

Even with an abundance of resources, an individual can only consume or use what is necessary for their own measure.

Outsiders should not interfere in marital disputes because the couple will likely reconcile on their own.

Maintaining a fair and neutral position without siding with any specific ideology or group.

The stomach is an integral part of your body, so overeating will damage your health.

Think calmly and wait until tomorrow before speaking while emotional, to avoid regret.

Control your anger because acting on it can lead to your own ruin.

Patiently enduring suffering or difficulty while refraining from acting rashly or impulsively.

While the first drink is controlled by the person, subsequent drinks lead to a loss of self-control until the alcohol eventually dominates the drinker.

Those who are supported by others should maintain a humble attitude and show restraint in their requests.

Ideal, comfortable conditions will not continue forever.

When two parties engage in a pointless conflict, a third party steps in and takes the profits.

Some things are better left unsaid, as silence can be more tasteful and prevent unnecessary trouble.

To scrutinize trivial details and nitpick over unimportant matters.

People naturally act, desire, and live in ways that suit their abilities, means, and social standing.

Secrets are easily leaked because you never know who might be listening or watching.

Do not act in a way that invites suspicion.

Yielding a trivial argument or short-term loss can lead to a long-term victory or benefit.