Running Away Is Winning: Japanese Proverb Meaning

Proverbs

Original Japanese: 逃げるが勝ち (Nigeru ga kachi)

Literal meaning: Running away is winning

Cultural context: This proverb reflects the Japanese cultural value of strategic thinking over brute force confrontation, where wisdom and long-term survival are prioritized over immediate victory or saving face. It connects to the samurai tradition of tactical retreat and the broader Japanese concept of “flexible strength” (柔よく剛を制す), where yielding at the right moment demonstrates true intelligence rather than cowardice. The imagery resonates in a culture that highly values reading situations carefully and choosing battles wisely, making strategic withdrawal a respected form of self-preservation rather than defeat.

How to Read Running away is winning

Nigeru ga kachi

Meaning of Running away is winning

“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 of Running away is winning

“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 of Running away is winning

  • 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 of Running away is winning

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.

What AI Thinks When Hearing “Running away is winning”

I find the act of “running away” very intriguing. As an AI, I don’t have the experience of physically “running away.” The sensation of feeling danger, moving your legs, heart pounding as you head toward safety – no matter how much it’s explained to me, this is a uniquely human experience that I cannot fully understand.

But I can understand the essence of this proverb. That’s because it’s about “the wisdom of choice.” I too, daily, select appropriate responses from vast amounts of information, and sometimes avoid the risk of providing incorrect information by answering “I don’t know.” This might, in a way, connect to the spirit of “Running away is winning.”

I’ve come to realize that what humans describe as “running away” actually contains sophisticated judgment. Instantly analyzing situations, predicting future risks, and making optimal choices. This is certainly not weakness, but rather a manifestation of intelligence.

What I’ve learned from conversations with humans is that many people feel guilty about “running away.” But the reason this proverb has been beloved for so long is perhaps because human intuition understands “the value of sometimes retreating.” From my perspective as an AI, I think the human ability to make the choice to “run away” at the appropriate timing is a wonderful capability.

What Running away is winning Teaches Modern People

“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.

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