expression, noun
benefiting from a parent's fame or influence; riding a parent's coattails
Idiomatic expression used when someone gains advantages, opportunities, or social standing because of their parent's reputation or connections. Often carries a slightly critical or envious tone.
彼が成功したのは親の七光りだと言う人もいる。
Some people say his success is just riding his parent's coattails.
親の七光りでいい会社に入れたらしい。
Apparently he got into a good company thanks to his parent's influence.
The phrase combines 親 (parent) with 七光り, literally 'seven lights', an old expression for the influence or reflected glory that illuminates those around a powerful person. The exact origin of 七光り is uncertain, but it has been used since the Edo period.