Translation guide
This English phrase describes repeating an error that a previous person in the same role or position made. In Japanese, it is often expressed with set phrases that emphasize learning from the past or the shame of repetition.
To express that someone is making the same error as the person who held the position before them.
Literally 'to perform the second dance', meaning to repeat someone else's failure. Commonly used when a successor makes the same mistake.
彼は前任者の二の舞を演じた。
He made the same mistake as his predecessor.
A variant of 二の舞を演じる, meaning 'to become the second dance'. Slightly less formal.
To express the intention to avoid repeating a predecessor's error.
The negative form of 二の舞を演じる, used to vow not to repeat the mistake.
二の舞を演じないように、しっかり引き継ぎます。
I will take over properly so as not to make the same mistake as my predecessor.
I'll be careful not to repeat the same mistake and end up like my predecessor.
Literally 'to step into the same rut', meaning to repeat a predecessor's failure. Often used in the negative: 轍を踏まないように (so as not to repeat the mistake).
前任者の轍を踏まないように、慎重に進めます。
I will proceed carefully so as not to repeat my predecessor's mistake.
A straightforward phrase meaning 'to repeat the same mistake'. Not specific to a predecessor, but can be used with context.
彼は前任者と同じ過ちを繰り返した。
He repeated the same mistake as his predecessor.
The negative form of 轍を踏む, often used in formal or written contexts.
過去の轍を踏まないよう、改革を進める。
We will promote reforms so as not to repeat past mistakes.