Proverb / Kotowaza
後は野となれ山となれ
An expression describing an irresponsible attitude where one only cares about the immediate situation and ignores the consequences that follow.
Afterwards, let it become a field, let it become a mountain
Quick Answer
An expression describing an irresponsible attitude where one only cares about the immediate situation and ignores the consequences that follow.
- Literal Image
- Afterwards, let it become a field, let it become a mountain
- Closest Equivalent
- After us the deluge
- How to Use It
- This is used to criticize people who abandon their responsibilities or act selfishly without regard for the future or the burden they leave for others.
Meaning
This proverb highlights a reckless mindset of focusing solely on getting through the current moment. It is used when someone is indifferent to any chaos, trouble, or ruin that might occur once their own part is finished or their immediate goals are met.
Literal Image
Afterwards, let it become a field, let it become a mountain
Equivalent Proverbs
After us the deluge
A direct conceptual match (Après nous le déluge).
How to Use It
This is used to criticize people who abandon their responsibilities or act selfishly without regard for the future or the burden they leave for others.
Tone
Highly critical and cautionary; it labels the subject's behavior as irresponsible and short-sighted.
Examples
自分の任期中だけうまくいけばいいという、後は野となれ山となれの姿勢では困る。
It is a problem to have an 'after us the deluge' attitude, where one only cares about things going well during their own term in office.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
While the vocabulary is basic, the length of the phrase and the use of the classical imperative form 'nare' make it more complex for lower-level learners.
後
あと / ato
after / later
野
の / no
field / wild plain
山
やま / yama
mountain
なれ
なれ / nare
become (imperative/command form)
Usage Profile
Usage note: This is a strong criticism of someone's character or work ethic; use it carefully as it implies serious irresponsibility.
Misread Risk
Do not confuse this with a positive 'let it be' or 'go with the flow' sentiment; it specifically targets negligence and the trouble left for others.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
The expression comes from the reckless attitude of not caring whether productive fields (田畑) eventually turn into wild plains (野原) or mountains (山) once one is no longer involved with them.
Index
Topics, Situations, and Tags
Topics
Situations
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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.