1.
surrounded by enemies; completely isolated
Being in a situation where one is surrounded by opposition or hostility with no allies to turn to.
社内で四面楚歌の状態になった。
I found myself isolated and without allies at work.
四面楚歌の中でも諦めなかった。
Even when surrounded by enemies, I didn't give up.
政権は四面楚歌に陥っている。
The administration finds itself isolated on all sides.
FOUR-CHARACTER IDIOM (四字熟語):
四面 (four sides/all directions) + 楚歌 (songs of Chu)
ORIGIN:
From the story of 項羽 (Xiang Yu), a military leader in ancient China. When his army was surrounded by the forces of 劉邦 (Liu Bang), he heard the songs of his native 楚 (Chu) coming from the enemy camp—meaning even his own countrymen had abandoned him.
USAGE:
Describes being in a desperate situation with no support, especially when former allies have turned against you. Often used in business and political contexts.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 四面楚歌の状態: a state of complete isolation
- 四面楚歌に陥る: to fall into complete isolation