Proverb / Kotowaza
負けるが勝ち
Yielding a trivial argument or short-term loss can lead to a long-term victory or benefit.
Losing is winning
Quick Answer
Yielding a trivial argument or short-term loss can lead to a long-term victory or benefit.
- Literal Image
- Losing is winning
- Closest Equivalent
- Sometimes you have to lose a battle to win the war.
- How to Use It
- It is used when advising someone to step back from an unproductive argument or competition to focus on more important long-term goals.
Meaning
This proverb suggests that avoiding a petty conflict by conceding to an opponent is more beneficial in the end. By not obsessing over immediate wins and losses, one can preserve energy, avoid unnecessary resentment, and ultimately achieve a better outcome.
Literal Image
Losing is winning
Equivalent Proverbs
Sometimes you have to lose a battle to win the war.
Focuses on strategic military-like loss for a larger victory.
Discretion is the better part of valor.
Emphasizes that being careful or yielding is better than reckless bravery.
How to Use It
It is used when advising someone to step back from an unproductive argument or competition to focus on more important long-term goals.
Tone
Can be used in an encouraging or cautionary way to promote emotional maturity and strategic thinking.
Examples
些細なことで言い争っても仕方がない。「負けるが勝ち」と思って、ここは譲っておこう。
There is no point in arguing over such a trivial matter. Thinking 'losing is winning,' I'll let it go this time.
無理にライバルと競っても疲弊するだけだ。「負けるが勝ち」で、別の道を探した方が良いかもしれない。
Forcing yourself to compete with a rival only leads to exhaustion. It might be better to think 'losing is winning' and find a different path.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Uses simple verbs (makeru) and nouns (kachi), making the phrase easy to read, though the underlying strategy is idiomatic.
負ける
まける / makeru
to lose
勝ち
かち / kachi
victory; winning
Usage Profile
Usage note: Do not confuse this with total submission; it is a strategic choice for long-term gain.
Misread Risk
Do not use it to justify giving up on everything; it specifically refers to avoiding unproductive or trivial conflicts.
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Origin
This proverb is thought to have emerged during the Edo period. While the exact origin is unclear, it emphasizes the importance of prioritizing long-term gains over short-term wins.
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Source Note
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