Proverb / Kotowaza
馬鹿な子ほど可愛い
Parents tend to feel a deeper affection and concern for a child who is less capable or causes more trouble.
The more foolish the child, the cuter they are
Quick Answer
Parents tend to feel a deeper affection and concern for a child who is less capable or causes more trouble.
- Literal Image
- The more foolish the child, the cuter they are
- How to Use It
- Used when observing that a parent seems particularly fond of or protective over a child who struggles, makes mistakes, or is considered a handful.
Meaning
A child who is less successful or independent requires more of a parent's time and mental energy. Because parents spent more time worrying about and caring for these children, they develop a stronger emotional bond and special affection for them compared to children who are self-sufficient.
Literal Image
The more foolish the child, the cuter they are
How to Use It
Used when observing that a parent seems particularly fond of or protective over a child who struggles, makes mistakes, or is considered a handful.
Tone
Reflects a sentimental and sometimes weary parental perspective on the nature of affection.
Examples
成績が振るわない末の子が一番心配だ。馬鹿な子ほど可愛いとはよく言ったものだ。
I'm most worried about my youngest child, whose grades are poor. It really is true what they say: the more trouble a child is, the more you love them.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The proverb uses basic vocabulary like 'baka', 'ko', and 'kawaii', combined with the N3 grammar 'hodo' to express a proportional relationship.
馬鹿
ばか / baka
foolish; less capable; troublesome
子
こ / ko
child
ほど
ほど / hodo
the more... (indicates degree)
可愛い
かわいい / kawaii
cute; beloved; dear
Usage Profile
Usage note: While 'baka' is used, the proverb is not meant to be an insult, but rather a reflection on the depth of parental love.
Misread Risk
Do not use this to literally mock a child's intelligence; it is intended to highlight the parent's protective nature and deep bond with a child who needs more help.
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Related Proverbs
Parental Psychology
This proverb describes the psychological state of a parent. While a successful or capable child can be independent, a child who struggles causes constant worry. This continuous attention and concern paradoxically lead to a deeper sense of affection for the child who is most difficult to raise.
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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.