柔じゅうよく剛ごうを制せいす

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.

• 柔じゅう道どうの精せい神しんは「柔じゅうよく剛ごうを制せいす」にある。

  The spirit of judo lies in 'softness overcomes hardness'.

• 交こう渉しょうでは、力ちからで押おすより柔じゅうよく剛ごうを制せいすが大たい切せつだ。

  In negotiations, it's more important to overcome strength with flexibility than to push with force.