leave no room for scandal; avoid actions that could be misinterpreted
Proverb warning against behavior that might invite suspicion, even if innocent. Literally: 'Don't adjust your cap under a plum tree (lest you look like you're stealing plums).' Used to advise caution in situations where one's actions could be misconstrued.
As the proverb says, 'Don't adjust your cap under a plum tree,' so I'll avoid counting money in front of others.
A similar Chinese-origin proverb: 'Don't put on your shoes in a melon patch (lest you look like you're stealing melons).' Often paired with 李下に冠を正さず to emphasize avoiding suspicious situations.
Standard kanji form of the proverb.
Variant using 整 instead of 正; less common but attested.
From a classical Chinese proverb, later adopted into Japanese. The literal meaning is 'Do not straighten your cap under a plum tree,' because raising your hands could be mistaken for trying to pick plums. It is a caution against actions that might invite unfounded suspicion.