瓜か田でん李り下か

expression

avoid even the appearance of impropriety; leave no room for scandal

A yojijukugo proverb meaning one should avoid situations that could invite suspicion, even if innocent. Literally: 'in a melon field, don't adjust your shoes; under a plum tree, don't straighten your hat' — actions that could be misinterpreted as stealing.

• 瓜か田でん李り下かの疑うたがいを避さけるため、彼かれはその場ばを離はなれた。

  To avoid any suspicion, he left the scene.

• 公こう務む員いんは瓜か田でん李り下かの行こう動どうを慎つつしむべきだ。

  Public officials should refrain from actions that could invite suspicion.