Japanese meaning of 犬猿の仲
Reading:
けんえんのなか (Ken'en no naka)
English Translation:
Fight like cats and dogs / Be at loggerheads
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Describes a relationship where two people cannot get along at all, like dogs and monkeys who are said to be natural enemies. This proverb is used for people who constantly argue or are in conflict, whether in personal or professional life.
Cultural Context:
Reflects the animal symbolism common in Japanese proverbs.
非常に仲が悪く、いつも喧嘩や対立を繰り返している間柄を表すことわざです。犬と猿のように本能的に反発し合う関係を指し、人間関係のトラブル時などによく使われます。
動物を使った比喩が日本のことわざによく見られます。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
Uses possessive particle "の" to show the relationship.
Trap for English Speakers
Not about actual dogs and monkeys; it's a metaphor for bad relationships.
Example
Basic Example
幼なじみの二人は「犬猿の仲」だが、試合になると息が合う不思議なコンビだ。
They’re like cats and dogs, yet on the court their teamwork clicks.
Applied Example
「今日だけは停戦。犬猿の仲でも、勝利は分け合おう。」
“Truce for today. We may be at loggerheads, but let’s share the win.”