腐れ縁の関係 (kusareen no kankei - a fated, undesirable relationship)
Grammar & Usage
How it works
This phrase is formed by the compound noun 『腐れ縁』 (kusareen, meaning an undesirable or inescapable bond) joined to 『関係』 (kankei, relationship) via the genitive/associative particle 『の』 (no). It functions syntactically as a noun phrase that can act as a subject, object, or predicate complement using the copula 『だ』 or 『である』. It describes interpersonal connections that persist out of habit, fate, or circumstance despite friction, lack of productivity, or toxicity.
Sample sentences
喧嘩ばかりしているが、彼らはずっと腐れ縁の関係が続いている。
Although they do nothing but argue, their inseparable, complicated relationship has continued for years.
元恋人との腐れ縁の関係をきっぱりと断ち切る決心をした。
I resolved to make a clean break from the lingering, unhealthy relationship with my ex.
小学校からの幼馴染とは、良くも悪くも腐れ縁の関係だ。
For better or worse, I share an inescapable, deep-rooted bond with my childhood friend from elementary school.
Quick facts
Mnemonic
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Example
喧嘩ばかりしているが、彼らはずっと腐れ縁の関係が続いている。
Although they do nothing but argue, their inseparable, complicated relationship has continued for years.
元恋人との腐れ縁の関係をきっぱりと断ち切る決心をした。
I resolved to make a clean break from the lingering, unhealthy relationship with my ex.
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