Signification
If one person shows kindness, the other will reciprocate in kind.
Contexte culturel
The concept of 'Okaeshi' (returning a gift) is deeply tied to this proverb. If you receive a wedding gift, you must return a gift of about half the value. This 'water heart' keeps the relationship balanced. In Japanese companies, 'Nemawashi' (informal groundwork) often relies on this proverb. By doing small favors for other departments first, you ensure they will support your project later. Proverbs like this were often printed on 'Iroha Karuta' (alphabet cards) used by children, which is why almost every Japanese person knows them by heart from a young age.
Use it to soften a request
If you need a favor, mentioning this proverb can make your request feel like an invitation to a better relationship rather than a burden.
Don't use it for 'Payback'
Avoid using this if you are angry. It's a 'warm' phrase, not a 'cold' one.
Signification
If one person shows kindness, the other will reciprocate in kind.
Use it to soften a request
If you need a favor, mentioning this proverb can make your request feel like an invitation to a better relationship rather than a burden.
Don't use it for 'Payback'
Avoid using this if you are angry. It's a 'warm' phrase, not a 'cold' one.
Teste-toi
Fill in the missing kanji to complete the proverb.
{魚|うお}( )あれば( ){心|こころ}
The proverb is {魚心|うおごころ}あれば{水心|みずごころ}.
Which situation best fits the proverb 'Uogokoro areba mizugokoro'?
Situation: You helped your friend study for an exam, and now they are helping you move houses.
This situation describes mutual help and reciprocity.
Complete the dialogue.
A: {昨日|きのう}は{手伝|てつだ}ってくれてありがとう。これ、お{礼|れい}のクッキー。 B: ( )。また{困|こま}ったときは{言|い}ってね。
The context is receiving a return gift for a favor.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercices{魚|うお}( )あれば( ){心|こころ}
The proverb is {魚心|うおごころ}あれば{水心|みずごころ}.
Situation: You helped your friend study for an exam, and now they are helping you move houses.
This situation describes mutual help and reciprocity.
A: {昨日|きのう}は{手伝|てつだ}ってくれてありがとう。これ、お{礼|れい}のクッキー。 B: ( )。また{困|こま}ったときは{言|い}ってね。
The context is receiving a return gift for a favor.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
2 questionsNot at all! While it's an old proverb, it's used frequently in modern business and daily life to describe social dynamics.
Yes, but use the formal version: 'Uogokoro areba mizugokoro to moushimasu shi...'
Expressions liées
{情|なさ}けは{人|ひと}のためならず
similarKindness is not for others' sake (it returns to you).
{水魚|すいぎょ}の{交|まじ}わり
builds onA relationship as close as fish and water.
{目|め}には{目|め}を
contrastAn eye for an eye.
