How to Read “逃げるが勝ち”
Nigeru ga kachi
Meaning of “逃げるが勝ち”
“Running away is winning” means withdrawing from reckless conflicts or disadvantageous situations to ultimately achieve the best outcome for oneself.
This proverb does not represent mere defeat or giving up, but rather refers to strategic choices based on calm judgment. Rather than stubbornly continuing futile battles out of immediate pride or ego, it expresses the wisdom of temporarily retreating to minimize losses and wait for better opportunities. Usage scenarios include withdrawing from hopeless arguments, declining unfavorable deals, and avoiding emotional conflicts. The reason for using this expression is to view retreat not as simple defeat, but as a positive, wise judgment. Even in modern times, this way of thinking is valued in business and human relationships when avoiding pointless conflicts and aiming for constructive solutions.
Origin and Etymology
“Running away is winning” is thought to have originated from strategic wisdom that has been passed down in Japan since ancient times. Behind this proverb lies the philosophy of “winning without fighting” that has continued since the samurai era.
The ancient Chinese military treatise “The Art of War” contains the words “To win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the pinnacle of excellence. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the pinnacle of excellence,” and it is presumed that this way of thinking was transmitted to Japan and took root. Additionally, the Chinese idiom “Of the thirty-six stratagems, fleeing is the best” may have also influenced the formation of this proverb.
In Japan, since the Heian period, there has been a culture of viewing the avoidance of reckless battles and temporary retreat as “honorable withdrawal.” Warriors from the Genpei War and Sengoku period also frequently employed tactics of retreating when at a disadvantage, regrouping, and ultimately achieving victory.
During the Edo period, this proverb spread from the samurai world to the lives of common people, and it is thought to have come to be used in the sense of “avoiding unnecessary conflicts and ultimately gaining profit” in business and human relationships. This proverb, which has been passed down to modern times, is deeply rooted as a practical life philosophy for Japanese people.
Usage Examples
- Arguing with that boss is just a waste of time, so today I’ll follow “running away is winning” and go home early
- Since stock prices keep falling, it might be better to follow “running away is winning” and sell now while we can
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, “Running away is winning” has taken on new interpretations and value. In our information society, online controversies and social media flame wars occur daily, making this proverb’s importance even greater. When we’re about to get caught up in emotional arguments, the value of stepping back and staying calm is being recognized anew.
With technological advancement, we live in an environment of constant 24/7 connectivity. In this situation, “Running away is winning” is being utilized as wisdom for digital detox and maintaining appropriate distance. In work as well, decisions to withdraw from unreasonable projects and choices to change jobs from toxic companies are being viewed more positively than before.
On the other hand, modern times have also created misunderstandings about “running away.” It’s sometimes confused with shirking responsibility or simple laziness, but the original proverb means strategic judgment. In our globalized modern world, it has become normal to not cling to one place or relationship but to move in search of better opportunities, and the thinking behind “Running away is winning” functions as a guide for modern living.
This proverb has become an important life skill for modern people to maintain peace of mind.
When AI Hears This
When we examine “retreat is victory” through the lens of psychological safety, striking parallels emerge. Psychological safety refers to an environment where people can fail, ask questions, or voice dissent without being punished, and at its core lies the concept of “accepting temporary vulnerability to achieve long-term success.”
Google’s research team discovered that high-performing teams share a common trait: members can openly say “I don’t know” or “I made a mistake.” While this appears to be “showing weakness” on the surface, it actually dramatically accelerates the entire team’s learning speed. This is precisely the structure of “retreat is victory” in action.
What’s fascinating is that many Japanese companies have cultivated a culture of “keep pushing forward” while simultaneously valuing the aesthetics of withdrawal—concepts like “reading the room” and “knowing when to step back.” This seemingly contradictory coexistence of values has actually fostered sophisticated situational judgment skills.
Many modern cases of burnout and mental health issues stem from the misconception that “you must never retreat.” However, psychological research has proven that strategic withdrawal and rest at appropriate times significantly enhance creativity and problem-solving abilities. Ancient wisdom had already identified what modern science now confirms as the optimal strategy.
Lessons for Today
“Running away is winning” teaches modern people that courage comes in two forms. One is the courage to face challenges, and the other is the courage to withdraw at the appropriate timing.
In modern society, continuing to persevere tends to be considered a virtue, but sometimes we need the composure to stop and assess the situation. If you’re currently in an unreasonable situation, that’s nothing to be ashamed of. By taking a step back and looking at the whole picture, new solutions may become visible.
This proverb is also a gentle phrase that frees us from perfectionism. It teaches us that we don’t need to win every battle, and that sometimes strategically retreating is important to protect what’s truly precious. In various situations – workplace relationships, family problems, anxiety about the future – thinking “maybe now is the time to pull back” can lighten the burden on your heart.
What’s important is not to view running away as defeat, but to accept it positively as a preparation period for the next opportunity. In your life, the wisdom of “Running away is winning” should open doors to a better tomorrow.
Comments