Overview
| Summary | Nigecha Dame da! means “I mustn’t run away” or literally “Running away is no good.” It’s a famous line spoken repeatedly by Shinji Ikari, the protagonist of the legendary anime Neon Genesis Evangelion. The phrase represents his intense inner struggle with fear, responsibility, and self-worth. Over time, this line became one of the most quoted in Japanese pop culture—often referenced in memes, parodies, and serious discussions about mental health and courage. |
| Japanese Writing | 逃げちゃダメだ（にげちゃだめだ） |
| Genre | Anime Catchphrase |
| Typical Age Group | 15–40 years old Especially anime fans or those who experienced Evangelion’s cultural boom in the late 90s and 2000s. |
| Audience | Fans of Neon Genesis Evangelion Anime and manga enthusiasts |
| Popularity | ★★★☆☆ |
| Relevance | ★★★★★ Though Evangelion first aired in 1995, it continues to be one of the most influential anime ever made. Nigecha Dame da is still quoted widely online and offline, especially in moments of hesitation or when people need to summon courage. |
| Usability | ★★★☆☆ |
| When to Use | When you’re about to give up but want to push through. As a dramatic inner monologue during a difficult task Jokingly among anime fans facing a “terrifying” everyday challenge (like chores or deadlines). |
| How to Use | 1.Lower your voice and mutter with intensity: “Nigecha… dame da…” 2.Repeat it a few times while looking anxious or focused 3.Optionally, clutch your head or stare into the distance for dramatic effect |
| Cultural Note | This line comes from Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995), a groundbreaking anime series that redefined the mecha genre and explored deep psychological themes. Shinji Ikari, the reluctant young pilot of a giant robot, repeats “Nigecha Dame da” as he struggles to face overwhelming expectations. The line captures a universal human feeling: the desire to flee from fear—and the desperate resolve not to. It’s since become a symbol of internal conflict, both sincere and parodied. |
Original performance
You can hear a similar phrase at about 18:32 in this YouTube video.