1.
even experts make mistakes
A proverb meaning that even those who are skilled or experienced can make errors. Comparable to 'even Homer nods' or 'nobody's perfect.'
あの名人が失敗するなんて、猿も木から落ちるだね。
I can't believe that master made a mistake. Even monkeys fall from trees, I guess.
猿も木から落ちるというから、油断しないで。
As they say, even monkeys fall from trees, so don't let your guard down.
彼女でも間違えることがある。猿も木から落ちるものだ。
Even she makes mistakes sometimes. Nobody's perfect.
PROVERB MEANING:
Monkeys are known for their agility in climbing trees, yet even they sometimes fall. By extension, even the most skilled people can make mistakes.
USAGE:
Used to comfort someone who has made an unexpected error, or as a reminder to stay humble and not be overconfident.
GRAMMAR NOTES:
Often used with という or というように when citing the proverb.
RELATED PROVERBS:
- 弘法も筆の誤り: Even Kobo (a master calligrapher) makes mistakes with the brush
- 河童の川流れ: Even kappa (water creatures) can be swept away
ENGLISH EQUIVALENTS:
- Even Homer nods
- Nobody's perfect
- To err is human