Translation guide
This English proverb means that maintaining some boundaries or distance helps preserve a friendship. In Japanese, there is no direct equivalent proverb, but the idea is expressed through phrases about respecting personal space, not being overly familiar, and the concept of 'kizukai' (consideration).
親しき仲にも礼儀あり
a hedge between keeps friendship green
This is the closest Japanese proverb, though it focuses on courtesy rather than physical boundaries.
Expressing the idea that some distance or boundaries help keep a friendship healthy
A common Japanese proverb meaning 'Even among close friends, there should be courtesy.' It emphasizes that even in close relationships, maintaining manners and boundaries is important.
親しき仲にも礼儀ありで、友達でもあまり干渉しすぎない方がいい。
As they say, 'a hedge between keeps friendship green,' so even with friends, it's better not to interfere too much.
There is no Japanese proverb that directly translates 'a hedge between keeps friendship green.' Using a literal translation like '生け垣が友情を緑に保つ' would not be understood. Instead, use the proverb '親しき仲にも礼儀あり' or explain the concept.
A more direct, modern expression meaning 'An appropriate sense of distance makes friendship last.' This is not a set phrase but a natural way to convey the concept.
適度な距離感が友情を長続きさせるって本当だね。
It's true that a hedge between keeps friendship green.
Since there is no exact proverb, you can explain the idea by talking about '気遣い' (consideration, thoughtfulness) and maintaining a comfortable distance. For example, '友達でも、お互いに気遣いを持って、適度な距離を保つことが大切だ' (Even among friends, it's important to be considerate and maintain an appropriate distance).
友達でも、お互いに気遣いを持って、適度な距離を保つことが大切だ。
Even among friends, it's important to be considerate and maintain an appropriate distance.