Proverb / Kotowaza
糸を引く
To manipulate matters behind the scenes, or for the effects of an event to linger.
to pull a thread
Quick Answer
To manipulate matters behind the scenes, or for the effects of an event to linger.
- Literal Image
- to pull a thread
- How to Use It
- Used when suspecting someone is secretly controlling a situation, or when describing the lasting impact of a past experience or problem.
Meaning
This expression carries two distinct metaphorical meanings. First, it refers to manipulating people or situations from the shadows, likening the action to a puppeteer controlling a marionette. Second, it describes the lingering influence or prolonged effects of an event, comparing the continuation to the trailing threads of sticky foods like natto or mochi.
Literal Image
to pull a thread
How to Use It
Used when suspecting someone is secretly controlling a situation, or when describing the lasting impact of a past experience or problem.
Tone
Takes on a critical or suspicious tone when describing hidden manipulation.
Examples
事件の裏で糸を引いているのは、あの大物政治家だと噂されている。
It is rumored that the powerful politician is pulling the strings behind the scenes of the incident.
幼少期の体験が今も糸を引いて、彼の性格に影響を与えている。
His childhood experiences still linger, influencing his personality today.
納豆が糸を引くように、この問題はいつまでも尾を引いている。
Just as natto leaves trailing threads, this problem is dragging on endlessly.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The vocabulary is simple, but learners must grasp two very different idiomatic usages.
糸
いと / ito
thread, string
引く
ひく / hiku
to pull
裏
うら / ura
behind the scenes, back
操る
あやつる / ayatsuru
to manipulate
Usage Profile
Usage note: When used for people, it implies deceit or hidden control, so avoid using it to compliment someone's leadership.
Misread Risk
Do not confuse the two meanings; context determines whether it refers to secret control or to lingering consequences.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
The expression originally comes from pulling the strings to move a marionette, which led to the meaning of manipulating people or events from behind the scenes. Additionally, because sticky foods like natto or mochi stretch out into long strings, the phrase also came to describe situations or effects that continue for a long time.
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Source Note
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