expression, godan verb (-su)
softness overcomes hardness; the weak can defeat the strong through flexibility
Proverb meaning that gentleness, flexibility, or yielding can overcome brute strength. Often used in martial arts contexts (e.g., judo) and in life advice.
柔道の精神は「柔よく剛を制す」にある。
The spirit of judo lies in 'softness overcomes hardness'.
交渉では、力で押すより柔よく剛を制すが大切だ。
In negotiations, it's more important to overcome strength with flexibility than to push with force.