JLPT N1Proverbs
泣いて馬謖を斬る
- Meaning
- 公正を保つために大切な人や部下を私情を捨てて処分する
- Explanation
- It is a metaphor for, in order to uphold discipline and fairness, setting aside personal feelings and dealing strictly even with a beloved subordinate. Note that "泣いて" expresses the depth of feeling. It is the exact opposite of c3, forgiving while swayed by emotion; the core is that, precisely because there is affection, one swallows one's tears and metes out punishment.
Original Japanese explanation
規律や公正を守るため、たとえ愛する部下でも私情を捨てて厳しく処分することのたとえ。「泣いて」が情の深さを表す点に注意。情に流されて許す c3 とは正反対で、情があるからこそ涙を呑んで処断するのが核心です。
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