Proverb / Kotowaza
悪縁契り深し
Unwanted or harmful relationships are deeply rooted and difficult to break.
A bond of bad fate is deep
Quick Answer
Unwanted or harmful relationships are deeply rooted and difficult to break.
- Literal Image
- A bond of bad fate is deep
- How to Use It
- Used when describing a persistent, unwanted relationship, such as repeatedly meeting someone you wish to avoid or being unable to break away from a negative group.
Meaning
This proverb expresses the idea that negative connections or relationships one wishes to end are tied more strongly than positive ones. It suggests that such bonds are not easily severed despite one's intentions to cut them off, as if they were destined to persist.
Literal Image
A bond of bad fate is deep
How to Use It
Used when describing a persistent, unwanted relationship, such as repeatedly meeting someone you wish to avoid or being unable to break away from a negative group.
Tone
Reflective and somewhat resigned, can be used in negative or cynical contexts.
Examples
縁を切ったはずの相手と取引先で再会した。悪縁契り深しとはこのことだ。
I met someone at a client's office whom I thought I had cut ties with. This is exactly what they mean by 'bad connections run deep'.
悪縁契り深しで、別れたはずの相手と何度も顔を合わせる羽目になった。
Due to the persistence of bad bonds, I ended up seeing my ex-partner over and over again.
ギャンブル仲間とは悪縁契り深しか、結局また誘われてしまう。
Perhaps it is because bad connections are deep, but I end up getting invited out by my gambling buddies again.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Uses the classical adjective ending '-shi' (fukashi) and specific Buddhist-influenced vocabulary (akuen, chigiri).
悪縁
あくえん / akuen
bad connection; evil fate
契り
ちぎり / chigiri
pledge; bond; vow
深し
ふかし / fukashi
deep (classical form)
Usage Profile
Usage note: Using this about a current relationship can be very insulting as it implies the connection is 'evil' or harmful.
Misread Risk
Do not use this to describe a deep, positive friendship; it specifically refers to connections that are negative or that one wishes to sever.
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Origin
This expression is based on the Buddhist concepts of 'en' (connection) and 'karma,' where relationships between people are viewed as ties originating from previous lives. It describes the human experience of how negative connections persist tenaciously, expressed through a Buddhist worldview. It has been used in Japanese society since the medieval period.
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Source Note
Where did this entry get its data from? The reference links are listed below. To understand how to read this section, see Data Sources.