Proverb / Kotowaza
悪女の深情け
An unattractive woman tends to be deeply devoted and single-minded in her love for one person.
The deep affection of an unattractive woman
Quick Answer
An unattractive woman tends to be deeply devoted and single-minded in her love for one person.
- Literal Image
- The deep affection of an unattractive woman
- How to Use It
- Used to describe a situation where someone who is perceived as unattractive shows an intense, perhaps overbearing, level of devotion or unrequited love.
Meaning
This expression suggests that a woman who is not physically attractive will pour all her romantic energy and affection into a single partner. It implies a contrast where those receiving less attention from others become more intensely attached to the one person they love. The proverb characterizes this type of devotion as being particularly heavy or persistent.
Literal Image
The deep affection of an unattractive woman
How to Use It
Used to describe a situation where someone who is perceived as unattractive shows an intense, perhaps overbearing, level of devotion or unrequited love.
Tone
This proverb carries a critical and potentially offensive nuance as it makes judgments based on physical appearance. Use with caution.
Examples
振り向いてもくれない相手に何年も想いを寄せ続けるのは、「悪女の深情け」というものだろう
Continuing to love someone for years who does not even look your way—that is surely what they call 'the deep affection of an unattractive woman'.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The proverb uses the specific term 'akujo' and the compound 'fukanasake', which require knowledge of more formal kanji and idiomatic vocabulary.
悪女
あくじょ / akujo
unattractive woman; wicked woman
深情け
ふかなさけ / fukanasake
deep affection; excessive devotion
Usage Profile
Usage note: This expression can be insulting as it links personality traits to physical appearance.
Misread Risk
Do not assume 'akujo' here refers to a 'wicked' or 'evil' woman; in this specific proverb, it refers to physical unattractiveness.
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Origin
The proverb stems from the traditional observation that while beautiful women are accustomed to receiving attention from many men, those who are not considered beautiful tend to become deeply and singularly attached to one individual.
Index
Topics, Situations, and Tags
Topics
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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.