How to Read “弱くても相撲取り”
Yowaku temo sumoutori
Meaning of “弱くても相撲取り”
“Even if weak, sumo wrestler” means that even if one lacks ability or skill, once they have taken on a position or role, they must fulfill their duties with responsibility.
Once a sumo wrestler steps into the ring, they cannot flee even when facing a stronger opponent. Similarly, once a person takes on a position or role, even if their abilities are insufficient, they cannot escape from that responsibility. This proverb teaches the importance of having a sense of responsibility and resolve toward one’s assigned role, rather than focusing on whether one has ability or not.
It is commonly used to encourage people who have taken on new positions or those placed in difficult situations. It is also used to express one’s mindset when feeling inadequate yet holding a position of responsibility. Even today, people who have just become managers or been assigned important projects value the spirit of “making up one’s mind to tackle the challenge” embodied in these words.
Origin and Etymology
The origin of “Even if weak, sumo wrestler” is thought to be deeply rooted in the sumo culture of the Edo period. During the Edo period, sumo was extremely popular entertainment for common people, and wrestlers were ranked according to a hierarchy system similar to today.
The background to this proverb’s creation lies in the harsh reality of the sumo world. Becoming a sumo wrestler meant that even if one was weak, they had to undergo rigorous daily training and step into the ring to compete. Even weak wrestlers, as long as they were sumo wrestlers, had to stand proudly in the ring and face strong opponents.
People of that time, observing the sumo world, likely found the lesson that even if one’s ability is inferior, once they take on a position or role, they must fulfill their duties with responsibility. The characteristics of the sumo wrestler profession are thought to have shaped the core meaning of this proverb.
Additionally, the social climate of the Edo period’s class system, which emphasized responsibility toward one’s occupation and position, is presumed to have influenced the establishment of this proverb.
Interesting Facts
In Edo period sumo, even weak wrestlers created entertainment value called “hana-zumo” by stepping into the ring. Spectators not only watched strong wrestlers dominate but also cheered for weak wrestlers who fought desperately, and this became part of the overall appeal of sumo entertainment.
In sumo rankings, even the lowest position has the official rank of “jonokuchi,” and no matter how weak, the dignity of being a sumo wrestler was maintained. This can be said to be an expression of Japan’s unique culture of “respecting one’s position,” which differs from modern professional sports.
Usage Examples
- I’m full of anxiety as a new section manager, but I have no choice but to do my best with the spirit of “even if weak, sumo wrestler.”
- My lack of experience is undeniable, but as the saying goes “even if weak, sumo wrestler,” I cannot run away from this responsibility.
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, the meaning of “Even if weak, sumo wrestler” has become more complex. With the lifetime employment system wavering and job changes becoming common, the traditional interpretation of “once you take a position, you cannot escape” no longer fully matches reality.
However, as project-based work increases, this proverb has acquired new meaning. The idea is that even for short periods, if you are entrusted with a responsible position, you cannot slack off due to lack of experience. This spirit serves as an important guideline in situations where young employees take on important roles at startup companies or freelancers take on large projects.
On the other hand, modern times emphasize “right person for the right job” and “expertise,” so there are voices questioning the very act of taking positions that don’t match one’s abilities. From the perspective of mental health problems caused by inappropriate assignments and overall organizational efficiency, the thinking that “appropriate personnel placement” should be prioritized over “working hard even if weak” has also spread.
Nevertheless, it is inevitable that people face important situations while unprepared. In various situations that modern people encounter – becoming parents, taking on caregiving responsibilities, becoming community leaders – the essential teaching of this proverb remains valid.
When AI Hears This
In today’s job market, what holds the highest value is actually “narrow but deep expertise.” This proverb hits right at the heart of this truth.
Even massive companies like Google and Microsoft pay premium salaries to hire specialists who can say “no one can beat me in this field” rather than people who are generally competent across the board. For example, cybersecurity specialists often earn over 20 million yen annually. Even if they perform below average in other areas, their expertise in that single field gives them overwhelming value.
The same phenomenon occurs in the YouTube market. Niche specialty channels like “insect food reviews” and “abandoned building exploration” have gained millions of subscribers. In other words, we live in an era where you can make a living as a professional in your field, even if you master a narrow specialty.
Behind this lies the “long tail phenomenon.” The internet has made it possible to gather fans from around the world, even in fields that interest only a small number of people. Just as a weak sumo wrestler still holds value because they possess the specialized skill of “sumo,” modern society has created a structure where having “at least one field where you know more than others” can become your weapon.
It’s surprising that an Edo period proverb had already seen through to the core of how we work in the AI age.
Lessons for Today
What “Even if weak, sumo wrestler” teaches modern people is the nobility of fulfilling responsibility even when not perfect. Precisely because we live in an era where we constantly see others’ successes on social media, it becomes important to accept our own imperfections while sincerely facing the roles we’ve been given.
As parents, as professionals, as members of our communities, we constantly carry various responsibilities while feeling “unprepared.” But if we wait until we become perfect, nothing will ever begin. What’s important is continuing to make the best effort we can with our current selves.
This proverb gives modern people, who tend to avoid challenges for fear of failure, the “courage to face challenges even when imperfect.” Rather than being ashamed of weakness, the attitude of trying to fulfill responsibility despite being weak may be true strength. People around us will surely support such sincere efforts. Since no one is perfect, let’s support each other and fight with all our might in our respective rings.
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