A classic Japanese idiom! 🏹️
「後ろを取れば勝ち確す」(Ato o torubeshi) literally means "if I take the rear, it's a sure win".
This phrase is often used to describe a situation where someone has an advantage or an upper hand. In this case, if you can get into the opponent's rear position (後ろ, ato), you will surely win the match.
In various martial arts, such as Judo or Sumo wrestling, getting your opponent in a rear position (also known as a "rear body lock" or "rear headlock") is often a decisive move that can lead to a quick victory.
So, if someone says "後ろを取れば勝ち確す", they're saying that having an advantage or getting into a strong position will almost guarantee their success. 😄