This saying means that once you are involved in a certain social circle, profession, or conflict, you are bound by its rules and pressures. You may have to do things you don't want to do because circumstances force you.
'江湖' (jianghu) originally referred to the world of martial arts and wandering heroes, but now means any competitive or complex social environment. It implies that certain worlds have their own codes that override personal wishes.
This saying provides a face-saving excuse for actions that might otherwise seem unethical or weak. It signals that the speaker is not fully in control, which elicits sympathy and reduces judgment from others.
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