Proverb / Kotowaza
ボタンを掛け違える
To make a mistake at the start of a process that leads to later complications or misunderstandings.
To fasten buttons incorrectly
Quick Answer
To make a mistake at the start of a process that leads to later complications or misunderstandings.
- Literal Image
- To fasten buttons incorrectly
- How to Use It
- Used to describe a project that has stalled due to an early error or a relationship that has become strained because of a misunderstanding at the beginning.
Meaning
To fail at the first step or initial stage of a task or relationship, causing the entire sequence to become misaligned or troubled. It suggests that once the first button is placed in the wrong hole, the rest of the process cannot proceed correctly without fixing the initial error.
Literal Image
To fasten buttons incorrectly
How to Use It
Used to describe a project that has stalled due to an early error or a relationship that has become strained because of a misunderstanding at the beginning.
Tone
Used to point out the root cause of a failure or complication.
Examples
最初の交渉でボタンを掛け違えると、修復は難しくなる。
If you make a mistake at the start of the negotiation, it becomes difficult to repair.
説明不足のせいで、彼との関係をボタンを掛け違えてしまった。
Due to a lack of explanation, my relationship with him got off on the wrong foot.
どこでボタンを掛け違えたのか、計画が全く進まない。
I don't know where the initial mistake was made, but the project isn't progressing at all.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Uses the katakana word 'botan' and the verb 'kakechigaeru'. While the vocabulary is accessible, the metaphorical use is idiomatic and requires understanding the concept of a cascading error.
ボタン
ぼたん / botan
button
掛け違える
かけちがえる / kakechigaeru
to button up wrong; to mismatch
Usage Profile
Usage note: This expression specifically targets the 'start' or 'initial step' of a sequence.
Misread Risk
Do not use this for simple physical accidents; it refers to errors in procedures, logic, or interpersonal communication.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
Derived from the visual of misaligning the first button of a shirt, which causes all subsequent buttons and holes to be mismatched.
Index
Topics, Situations, and Tags
Topics
Situations
Tags
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.