Japanese Proverbs About Strategy & Tactics

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

To deal with a matter decisively, swiftly, and without hesitation.

It is easy to talk about doing something, but carrying it out in practice is difficult.

It can be more advantageous to be a minor member of a prestigious group than the leader of an insignificant one.

A critical moment or emergency that demands immediate action.

Something or someone that one can use freely and masterfully as if it were their own.

Refers to a biased or unorthodox approach that fails to move things straight forward, or a lack of real progress.

To align oneself with the winning or advantageous side to gain a benefit.

Those who do not prepare the basics in daily life cannot present themselves properly on special occasions.

Stay vigilant even after a victory or success.

To make a bold decision or take a leap of faith with desperate resolve.

You cannot achieve great success without taking significant risks.

Preparing in advance ensures that you can avoid failure when trouble strikes.

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

A strong person or thing becomes even more powerful when provided with an additional advantage.

When focused on a single goal, one loses sight of the surroundings or larger context.

Accept a small loss now in order to achieve a much larger gain in the future.

Counting on something or making plans based on rewards that have not yet been obtained.

Sometimes a lie is a necessary means to achieve a good result or avoid harm.

A small amount of effort or aid that is completely ineffective against a large problem.

Hurry to do good deeds without hesitation.