俑ようを作つくる

expression, godan verb (-ru)

set a bad example; create a bad precedent

Idiomatic expression derived from Mencius; used when someone's action establishes an undesirable model that others may follow. Often carries a cautionary tone.

• 彼かれの不ふ正せいを許ゆるせば、俑ようを作つくることになる。

  If we overlook his misconduct, it will set a bad precedent.

• 安あん易いな妥だ協きょうは俑ようを作つくりかねない。

  An easy compromise could create a bad example.