The Best Quotes from Anime Films and TV Series

Japanese anime has a unique style and storytelling approach that sets it apart from Western animation. Its art style is characterised by detailed backgrounds, expressive characters, dynamic camera angles, and vivid colours. 

Anime also offers a wide variety of genres for viewers to explore, from action-packed adventure stories to slice-of-life series. Thematically, anime often delves into deeper themes and emotions, providing thought-provoking dialogue that resonates with viewers. It’s no wonder, then, that so many quotes from anime series and films are worthy of being tattooed on one’s skin or framed on a wall.

In this article, we will explore some of the best quotes from anime shows and films, reflecting on their meaning and the inspiration they bring.

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Quotes from Anime Shows

Bleach (2004)

“To know sorrow is not terrifying. What is terrifying is to know you can’t go back to the happiness you could have.” – Matsumoto Rangiku 

This quote reminds us that pain is a natural part of life. However, the true terror lies in realising that we cannot return to a state of happiness that once existed. In a way, it’s a very inspiring quote: It urges us to cherish the moments of joy we have and make the most of them while we can.

Fairy Tail (2009)

“Fear is not evil. It tells you what weakness is. And once you know your weakness, you can become stronger as well as kinder.” – Gildarts Clive 

This is one of our favourite quotes from anime. It challenges our perception of fear, portraying it as a tool for growth rather than something to be avoided. It suggests that knowledge of our deepest fears allows us to become better, stronger versions of ourselves.

Violet Evergarden (2018)

“Dead people receive more flowers than living ones because regret is stronger than gratitude.” – Violet Evergarden 

While this phrase is not originally from Violet Evergarden, it was beautifully used in an emotional episode of the series. The saying reflects on our tendency of taking people and their presence for granted. In doing so, it highlights the importance of expressing gratitude and appreciation to those around us while they are still alive.

Monster (2004)

“If You Don’t Have Any Happy Memories, Then Make Them.” – Dieter 

The quotes from anime shows we have selected don’t just invite you to think — they invite you to act. This quote emphasises the power of actively shaping our life. More specifically, it encourages us to seek out moments of happiness and create meaningful memories that can bring us joy even during challenging times.

Rurouni Kenshin (2012)

“Whatever you lose, you’ll find it again. But what you throw away, you’ll never get back.” – Kenshin Himura

This phrase brings us both relief and caution. On the one hand, it suggests that the things we’ve lost will eventually return to us one way or another. On the other hand, it serves as a reminder that the things we discard or fail to give value to may never come back, urging us to cherish our relationships and opportunities.

Quotes from Anime Films

Your Name (2016)

“Treasure the experience. Dreams fade away after you wake up.” – Hitoha Miyamizu 

This quote encapsulates the fleeting nature of dreams and the importance of cherishing the present moment. Are you going through a happy time? Live it to its fullest. Because, just like dreams, experiences can dissipate overnight.

Suzume (2022)

“The future is not so scary. I will meet people I’ll love, people who will care about me.” – Suzume

Like most of the quotes from anime films in our article, this phrase carries a message of hope and optimism about the future. It reminds us that despite the uncertainties that lie ahead, we can always expect to find love and support from people who care about us. Even if we are weathering a storm, love will get us through.

Ghost in the Shell (1995) 

“If we all reacted the same way, we’d be predictable, and there’s always more than one way to view a situation.” – Major Motoko Kusanagi 

This quote celebrates diversity and individuality, suggesting that unique perspectives and reactions to situations contribute to the richness of life. Write this wonderful phrase in your diary and remind yourself to embrace different viewpoints and appreciate the multiplicity of interpretations.

Spirited Away (2001)

“Once you’ve met someone, you never really forget them. It just takes a while for your memories to come back.” – Zeniba 

This phrase speaks to the lasting impact that others can have on our lives. Even when we would like to underestimate the importance of a certain person, memories will resurface and rekindle the emotions associated with those we thought we had forgotten.

Grave of the Fireflies (1988)

“Why do fireflies have to die so soon?” – Setsuko (Grave of the Fireflies)

Grave of the Fireflies is one of the best anime films of all time. This poignant quote expresses the innocence and wonder of a child grappling with the concept of mortality. Through a metaphorical question, it invites us to reflect on the brevity of life and encourages us to appreciate each moment we have. Without a doubt, one of the most moving quotes from anime films on our list.

Unforgettable Quotes from Anime Heroes

Full Metal Alchemist (2003)

“The world isn’t perfect. But it’s there for us, doing the best it can… that’s what makes it so damn beautiful.” – Roy Mustang

Roy Mustang is one of the most beloved characters in Japanese television history. This quote reminds us of the inherent imperfections in the world, but it does much more than that. It celebrates the beauty of life despite its flaws and emphasises the resilience and adaptability of humanity to strive for a better future.

One Piece (1999)

“If you don’t take risks, you can’t create a future!” – Monkey D. Luffy

Here’s one of our favourite quotes from anime heroes. This simple phrase champions the importance of courage and the willingness to venture into the unknown, encouraging us to embrace challenges and take risks. Because, as everyone who’s ever tried to achieve something knows, the best way to create the future we want is by taking a step forward, no matter how small.

Slam Dunk (1990)

“When you give up, that’s when the game ends.” – Mitsuyoshi Anzai

As the coach of the Shohoku High School basketball team, Mitsuyoshi always knows the right thing to say. This quote emphasises the value of perseverance and determination. More importantly, it reminds us that defeat only occurs when we surrender. For, as long as we keep pushing forward, we can never lose!

Dragon Ball Z (1989)

“Sometimes, we have to look beyond what we want and do what’s best.” – Piccolo (Dragon Ball Z)

In an ideal world, we would always get what we want. But, in reality, that’s rarely the case. Piccolo’s words remind us to sometimes put aside our own desires and make choices with the greater good in mind. Doing so may not always be easy, but it’s often what’s best for ourselves and those around us.

From our selection of quotes from anime films and TV series, it’s plain to see that Japanese animation is wonderful at capturing the depth of human emotions and the complexities of life.

These phrases serve as guiding principles, offering wisdom, inspiration, and moments of reflection. Whether we find solace, motivation, or a new perspective in these words, they all remind us of the importance of cherishing our relationships and experiences.

Would you like to be able to say or write these quotes from anime in Japanese? At Language Trainers, we offer private online classes in Japanese to help you pursue your dreams.

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