Proverb / Kotowaza
合従連衡
The shifting formation and dissolution of alliances among groups based on changing circumstances.
joining vertically and connecting horizontally
Quick Answer
The shifting formation and dissolution of alliances among groups based on changing circumstances.
- Literal Image
- joining vertically and connecting horizontally
- How to Use It
- Used in formal contexts such as politics and business to describe parties or corporations negotiating, merging, or parting ways as part of a strategic struggle.
Meaning
Refers to the tactical maneuvering of various factions in a power struggle as they form or break alliances to gain an advantage. It describes a fluid environment where groups cooperate or compete depending on immediate interests and external conditions.
Literal Image
joining vertically and connecting horizontally
How to Use It
Used in formal contexts such as politics and business to describe parties or corporations negotiating, merging, or parting ways as part of a strategic struggle.
Tone
A formal and intellectual expression used in news reporting or the analysis of power dynamics.
Examples
業界再編に向けて、各社が合従連衡の動きを加速させている。
Companies are accelerating their tactical maneuvering and alliances in preparation for industry restructuring.
選挙を前に、政党間で激しい合従連衡が繰り返された。
Intense formation and breaking of alliances repeatedly occurred between political parties ahead of the election.
生き残りをかけた合従連衡の末、巨大なグループが誕生した。
After a series of tactical alliances aimed at survival, a massive group was formed.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
This is a formal four-character idiom (yojijukugo) containing formal kanji and specific historical terminology.
合従
がっしょう / gasshou
forming an alliance (historically a 'vertical' one)
連衡
れんこう / renkou
linking with others (historically a 'horizontal' one)
勢力争い
せいりょくあらそい / seiryoku arasoi
power struggle
駆け引き
かけひき / kakehiki
tactical maneuvering; bargaining
Usage Profile
Usage note: This term is specific to group dynamics and power struggles; it is not used for personal friendships.
Misread Risk
Do not assume this refers to simple teamwork; it implies a calculated, temporary alliance for mutual benefit in a competitive environment.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
This expression originates from diplomatic strategies used during the Warring States period of ancient China: "Gasshou-saku" (vertical alliance) and "Renkou-saku" (horizontal alliance).
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.