How to Read “敵もさるもの引っ掻くもの”
teki mo saru mono hikkaku mono
Meaning of “敵もさるもの引っ掻くもの”
This proverb means “the enemy is also a formidable opponent who should not be underestimated; if you let your guard down, you will face retaliation.”
Even if an opponent appears to be at a disadvantage or seems weak, it warns that when cornered, they may desperately counterattack. “Saru mono” is an archaic expression meaning “such a person” or “a considerable person,” showing a certain respect and recognition for the enemy. “Hikkaku mono” (scratching thing) expresses the act of counterattacking when driven into a corner.
This proverb is used when one is about to underestimate an opponent or when becoming complacent after being confident of victory. It is employed to teach the necessity of maintaining vigilance until the end when dealing with competitors, rivals, or negotiating partners. Even in modern times, it is used in sports matches, workplace competition, and entrance exams to express the importance of recognizing an opponent’s abilities while never letting one’s guard down until the very end.
Origin and Etymology
Regarding the origin of this proverb, no clear documentary evidence has been found at present. However, there are origins that can be inferred from the structure of the words.
“Saru mono” in “Enemy also monkey also scratching thing” does not refer to the modern word “monkey,” but rather the archaic “saru mono,” meaning “such a person” or “a considerable person.” This was an expression used since the Heian period, a respectful way of evaluating others.
The “hikkaku mono” (scratching thing) part literally refers to the action of scratching with claws, but it is used as a symbol of counterattack or resistance. It is thought to come from the image of a cornered animal using its claws as a last resort to fight back.
While this proverb is presumed to have become established during the Edo period, there was likely a cultural background in warrior society that showed respect for enemies while recognizing their danger. It reflects the values of an era where maintaining constant vigilance without underestimating opponents was highly valued.
As a whole expression, it is thought to have been created as a teaching that incorporates the lesson of properly evaluating the abilities and dangers of opposing parties, regardless of their adversarial status, and never letting one’s guard down.
Usage Examples
- Even though that company’s performance is declining, Enemy also monkey also scratching thing – they might launch a major counterattack at the end
- Just because we’re leading near the end of the match doesn’t mean we should let our guard down; Enemy also monkey also scratching thing, and you never know what might happen
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, the lessons of this proverb have taken on more complex and important meanings. This is because in the information age, competition between companies and individual career competition has become faster-paced and more difficult to predict than before.
In the business world, companies that appear to be at a disadvantage frequently overturn markets with suddenly innovative technologies or services. Examples abound of companies that were once giants in photographic film being put in difficult positions by the wave of digitization, or conversely, small startups threatening existing large corporations.
In the modern era, with the spread of social media and the internet, even individuals can wield great influence, and it’s not uncommon for people in positions thought to be “weak” to reverse the situation overnight. Cases where unexpected counterattacks cause major ripples, such as viral phenomena and online controversies, are also increasing.
On the other hand, in modern times, the very concept of “enemy” has become ambiguous. Even competitors may build cooperative relationships, and today’s rival may become tomorrow’s partner. Therefore, the aspect of “respect for opponents” in this proverb has become more important. Rather than completely defeating opponents, relationships are sought where parties recognize each other’s strengths while engaging in mutual improvement.
When AI Hears This
This proverb contains a uniquely Japanese “paradoxical expression of respect” hidden within it. On the surface, it treats the other party as inferior with “even though they’re just a monkey,” while actually issuing a warning that “they shouldn’t be underestimated.”
This duality represents a psychological defense mechanism of the Japanese people. In other words, directly praising an opponent carries the risk of making oneself appear disadvantaged. So by using the expression “even a monkey will scratch,” they acknowledge the opponent’s abilities while preserving their own pride.
What’s fascinating is that this expression actually demonstrates maximum wariness toward the opponent. If they truly looked down on their opponent, there would be no need to deliberately create a proverb to issue a warning. By mentioning the specific retaliatory action of “scratching,” they expose that they fully recognize the opponent’s capacity for counterattack.
Even more noteworthy is that the person using this proverb is indirectly admitting they were “caught off guard.” While calling their opponent a “monkey,” they’re accepting the situation where they’re struggling against that very “monkey.” This could be called a uniquely Japanese way of “losing without admitting defeat.”
In essence, it’s an extremely complex emotional expression where apparent contempt and substantial respect coexist. They maintain their self-esteem by looking down on their opponent, while simultaneously acknowledging the opponent’s abilities and maintaining vigilance. This contradictory attitude is precisely what makes this proverb truly fascinating.
Lessons for Today
What this proverb teaches modern people is the importance of maintaining respect for opponents and appropriate tension. Especially when success becomes visible, an attitude of working carefully to the end without forgetting humility is required.
In modern society, rather than completely defeating competitors, relationships where parties recognize each other’s abilities while growing together have become important. By not underestimating opponents’ potential and continuing to maintain a learning attitude, we can grow ourselves as well.
Additionally, this proverb teaches us the mindset for when we ourselves become the “scratching side.” It shows that even in disadvantageous situations, if we don’t give up and exert our full power, there’s potential for unexpected reversals.
In life, complete victory or defeat is rare. Today’s enemy may become tomorrow’s friend, and vice versa. Therefore, it’s important to treat any opponent with respect, never letting our guard down, but facing them with healthy competitive spirit rather than hostility. This attitude will bring us rich human relationships and sustainable growth.
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