expression, ichidan verb
even the strong-willed fall into temptation
Proverb meaning that even a person of firm resolve can succumb to temptation if persistently tested, just as a gold chain can be broken by pulling.
彼は清廉だったが、金の鎖も引けば切れるで、つい賄賂を受け取ってしまった。
He was honest, but as the proverb goes, even a gold chain breaks if you pull it, and he ended up accepting a bribe.
expression, ichidan verb
there's nothing you can't do if you set your mind to it
Proverb meaning that with enough persistence, any obstacle can be overcome, just as even a gold chain can be broken by pulling.
金の鎖も引けば切れるというように、諦めずに努力すれば夢は叶う。
As the saying goes, even a gold chain breaks if you pull it; if you keep trying without giving up, your dreams will come true.