Japanese proverbs, also known as "yôgan," are short phrases that convey specific wisdom or truth. They are often drawn from nature or everyday life and are steeped in cultural and historical contexts. They reflect society's values, beliefs, and way of life. These proverbs are passed down through generations and are still widely used today in everyday conversations and literature. They are often used to impart advice, make a point, or offer a different perspective on a situation. They are a rich source of cultural and linguistic knowledge and are a valuable tool for understanding Japanese culture and society. Some examples of Japanese proverbs include "Fall down seven times, get up eight" which means if at first, you don't succeed, try again; "A willow before the wind" which means to follow the path of least resistance and "A short temper is a disadvantage" which means be slow to anger, quick to befriend.