JLPT N2Proverbs
立つ鳥跡を濁さず
- Meaning
- 去る者は後始末をきれいにすべきである
- Explanation
- 「立つ鳥跡を濁さず」 is a lesson that one who departs should tidy up cleanly so that the aftermath does not look unsightly. It is the opposite of "when leaving, one may leave without caring," and is a saying that values the beauty of one's withdrawal and responsibility.
Original Japanese explanation
「立つ鳥跡を濁さず」は、立ち去る者は、あとが見苦しくならないようきれいに後始末をすべきだという教訓です。「去る時は気にせず去ればよい」とは逆で、引き際の美しさや責任を重んじる言葉です。
Quick check
Please choose the most appropriate meaning expressed by 「立つ鳥跡を濁さず」.
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