Proverb / Kotowaza
不即不離
A state of maintaining a balanced distance where two things are closely related but remain distinct.
not attached, not separated
Quick Answer
A state of maintaining a balanced distance where two things are closely related but remain distinct.
- Literal Image
- not attached, not separated
- How to Use It
- It is used to describe delicate balances in relationships, politics, or abstract concepts where both independence and connection must coexist.
Meaning
This expression describes a relationship or situation where two elements are intimately connected yet do not merge into a single entity. It signifies the importance of maintaining a moderate distance—neither getting too close nor becoming completely estranged.
Literal Image
not attached, not separated
How to Use It
It is used to describe delicate balances in relationships, politics, or abstract concepts where both independence and connection must coexist.
Tone
This is a formal and analytical term found in literary or intellectual contexts.
Examples
政治と宗教は、不即不離の微妙な関係にある。
Politics and religion exist in a delicate, inseparable yet distinct relationship.
芸術作品において、現実と理想の不即不離なバランスが重要だ。
In works of art, a balanced relationship between reality and the ideal, neither too close nor too far, is important.
夫婦は不即不離の距離感を保つことが、円満の秘訣かもしれない。
For a married couple, maintaining a distance that is neither too close nor too far might be the secret to a happy relationship.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
This is a four-character idiom (yojijukugo) of Buddhist origin. While the individual kanji for 'not' and 'separate' are relatively simple, the overall phrase is formal and describes an abstract conceptual relationship.
不
ふ / fu
not; non-
即
そく / soku
attached; identical with
離
り / ri
separation; apart
Usage Profile
Usage note: It is primarily used in formal writing or intellectual discussions rather than casual daily conversation.
Misread Risk
Do not assume it refers only to physical distance; it more describes the conceptual or emotional relationship between two distinct ideas or entities.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
This is a Buddhist term referring to the idea that two phenomena are distinct entities yet share an inseparable relationship.
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.