三さん舎しゃを避さける

expression, ichidan verb

keep one's distance; give a wide berth

Idiomatic expression originating from a Chinese historical anecdote. Used when someone avoids another person out of fear, respect, or because the other is superior. Often implies a strategic or prudent retreat rather than mere dislike.

• 彼かれは上じょう司しの怒いかりを買かってから、三さん舎しゃを避さけるようにしている。

  After incurring his boss's anger, he has been keeping his distance from him.

• あの政せい治じ家かはスキャンダル以い降こう、マスコミに対たいして三さん舎しゃを避さけている。

  Since the scandal, that politician has been giving the media a wide berth.