Proverb / Kotowaza
麻に連るる蓬
A person’s character is naturally improved when they are in a virtuous environment or around excellent companions.
Mugwort growing in a field of hemp.
Quick Answer
A person’s character is naturally improved when they are in a virtuous environment or around excellent companions.
- Literal Image
- Mugwort growing in a field of hemp.
- How to Use It
- Used to explain how someone's growth, success, or positive change is the result of their high-quality surroundings or the peers they associate with.
Meaning
Mugwort is a plant that normally grows crookedly, but when it grows in a field of tall, straight hemp, it is forced to grow straight as well. This serves as a metaphor for human development: even a person with flaws or bad habits will naturally receive positive influence and improve their character by associating with good people and living in a positive environment.
Literal Image
Mugwort growing in a field of hemp.
How to Use It
Used to explain how someone's growth, success, or positive change is the result of their high-quality surroundings or the peers they associate with.
Tone
Neutral and instructive, can be used when observing or praising the positive growth of a person.
Examples
彼がこんなに成長したのは、優秀な仲間に囲まれたからだろう。「麻に連るる蓬」とはこのことだ
The reason he has grown so much is likely because he was surrounded by excellent colleagues. This is exactly what is meant by 'mugwort growing among hemp'.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The proverb uses the classical verb form 'tsururu' (to be led/accompany) and the botanical kanji for mugwort (蓬), making the literal meaning slightly opaque for beginners.
麻
あさ / asa
hemp
連るる
つるる / tsururu
to be led by; to accompany (classical form)
蓬
よもぎ / yomogi
mugwort
Usage Profile
Usage note: While positive, it can imply the person didn't change on their own, but was merely 'carried' by their environment.
Misread Risk
Do not interpret this as literal gardening advice; it is a metaphor for the social and moral influence of one's environment.
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Origin
This expression originates from the 'Encouraging Learning' (Quanxue) chapter of the Chinese classic Xunzi. The original text states '蓬生麻中、不扶而直' (When mugwort grows in the middle of hemp, it grows straight without needing support). It highlights the fundamental importance of environment and social circle in shaping a person's character.
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