15秒でわかる
- You are responsible for the mess you created.
- The Chinese version of 'reap what you sow'.
- Used when someone's own actions cause their misfortune.
意味
This phrase describes a situation where someone has to deal with the negative consequences of their own actions. It is the Chinese equivalent of saying 'you brought this on yourself' or 'you made your bed, now lie in it.'
主な例文
3 / 6A friend stayed up late gaming and missed an exam
我早就叫你早点睡，现在迟到了吧，真是自作自受。
I told you to sleep early, now you're late; you really brought this on yourself.
A colleague lied about their skills and got a difficult task
他在简历上撒谎，现在没办法完成任务，只能自作自受。
He lied on his resume, and now he can't finish the task; he has to face the consequences.
Texting about a celebrity who got caught in a scandal
那个明星做了坏事被发现，真是自作自受。
That celebrity did something bad and got caught; they got what they deserved.
文化的背景
The phrase is often used as a 'moral lesson' for children.
Context is key
Only use this when the person is clearly responsible.
15秒でわかる
- You are responsible for the mess you created.
- The Chinese version of 'reap what you sow'.
- Used when someone's own actions cause their misfortune.
What It Means
自作自受 is all about personal accountability. It describes a circular journey of karma. You do something foolish or mean. Then, the bad results come back to bite you. It is not about bad luck. It is about your own choices. Think of it as a 'boomerang' effect. You throw the trouble, and it hits you on the head.
How To Use It
You can use it as a standalone comment. You can also use it within a sentence. It usually follows a description of someone’s mistake. It sounds like a final judgment on the situation. Use it when the cause-and-effect link is very clear. It is punchy and direct. It leaves no room for excuses.
When To Use It
Use it when a friend ignores your advice. Use it when a coworker procrastinates and misses a deadline. It works well in casual venting sessions. You might say it while watching a movie villain fail. It is perfect for those 'I told you so' moments. Use it when the person deserves the outcome. It adds a layer of 'tough love' or cold reality.
When NOT To Use It
Never use this at a funeral or during a tragedy. Do not use it if the person is truly suffering. It can sound very heartless if used wrongly. Avoid using it with your boss or elders. It carries a tone of criticism. If someone is already crying, maybe keep this phrase to yourself. It is a reality check, not a weapon.
Cultural Background
This expression has roots in Buddhist philosophy. It relates to the concept of Karma (因果报应). In Chinese culture, people believe actions have inevitable echoes. It reflects a traditional value of taking responsibility. It has been used in literature for centuries. It is a core part of how people view justice. It suggests the universe is balanced.
Common Variations
You might hear 自讨苦吃. This means 'to look for trouble.' Another one is 自食其果. This means 'to eat one's own bitter fruit.' 自作自受 is the most common for general bad outcomes. 自讨苦吃 is better for unnecessary extra work. All of them focus on the 'self' (自) as the source.
使い方のコツ
The phrase is neutral in formality but leans towards informal in daily conversation. It is critical in nature, so avoid using it with superiors or in situations requiring high empathy.
Context is key
Only use this when the person is clearly responsible.
例文
6我早就叫你早点睡，现在迟到了吧，真是自作自受。
I told you to sleep early, now you're late; you really brought this on yourself.
A classic 'I told you so' moment between friends.
他在简历上撒谎，现在没办法完成任务，只能自作自受。
He lied on his resume, and now he can't finish the task; he has to face the consequences.
Discussing a professional failure caused by dishonesty.
那个明星做了坏事被发现，真是自作自受。
That celebrity did something bad and got caught; they got what they deserved.
Using the phrase to comment on public news.
谁让你吃那么多辣椒？现在肚子疼是自作自受。
Who told you to eat so many chilies? Having a stomach ache now is your own fault.
A humorous, slightly teasing tone between family members.
我当初没听父母的劝告，落到今天这个地步，也是自作自受。
I didn't listen to my parents' advice back then; ending up like this today is my own doing.
A moment of deep self-reflection and regret.
法律面前，任何人违法乱纪都是自作自受，必须承担责任。
Before the law, anyone who breaks the rules reaps what they sow and must take responsibility.
Using the phrase to emphasize legal accountability.
自分をテスト
Fill in the blank with the correct idiom.
他因为不听劝告而失败，真是______。
The context describes a negative consequence of a bad choice.
🎉 スコア： /1
ビジュアル学習ツール
練習問題バンク
1 問題他因为不听劝告而失败，真是______。
The context describes a negative consequence of a bad choice.
🎉 スコア： /1
よくある質問
1 問Yes, it shows you are taking responsibility.
関連フレーズ
自食其果
synonymEat one's own fruit.
