マッチポンプ

noun

stirring up trouble to get credit for solving it; profiting from problems one created

Describes a manipulative pattern where someone creates a problem and then steps in to resolve it, gaining praise or advantage. Often used critically in social or political commentary.

wasei-eigo (Japanese-coined English), from match · wasei (Japanese coinage from Dutch), from pomp

• 彼かれのやり方かたは完かん全ぜんにマッチポンプだ。

  His method is a perfect example of match-pump: he creates a problem and then solves it to look good.

• あの政せい治じ家かはマッチポンプで支し持じを集あつめている。

  That politician is gathering support by stirring up trouble and then resolving it.