Translation and Meaning of: 一言 - ichigen

If you have ever wondered what 一言 (いちげん) means and how this word is used in everyday Japanese, you are in the right place. Here, besides discovering the literal translation—single word—you will understand its origin, the meaning behind the kanji, and even tips for memorizing it effectively. In the largest Japanese dictionary, Suki Nihongo, you will also find practical examples for studying in Anki or other spaced repetition programs. Let's explore everything from etymology to cultural insights that make this expression so special.

Origin and etymology of 一言

The word 一言 is composed of two kanjis: 一 (いち), which means "one", and 言 (げん), which represents "speech" or "word". Together, they convey the idea of a single statement, something said concisely. Interestingly, this term appears in historical contexts, such as in the Kojiki, one of the oldest texts in Japan, where brevity was valued in formal speeches.

In feudal Japan, the ability to summarize a complex thought in a few words was considered a virtue among samurai and poets. Imagine a duelist deciding the outcome of a fight with a single phrase—it's exactly this weight that 一言 carries. Even today, the expression is used in situations that require verbal precision, such as debates or decisive advice.

Lies in everyday life and cultural nuances

In daily life, the Japanese use 一言 to highlight impactful phrases or essential summaries. For example, in work meetings, someone might ask: "一言でまとめてください" ("Summarize in one word"). It is also common to see it on social media, where users share "一言アドバイス" (brief advice) on topics such as studies or relationships.

A curiosity is the pun with 一言居士 (いちげんこじ), a term that describes someone who always has an opinion to share—sometimes, in an annoying way. If you have ever met that person who comments on everything, even when not asked, now you know how the Japanese refer to them! This type of detail shows how the language mixes humor and social critique.

Tips for memorizing and applying

To reinforce 一言, associate the kanji 言 with other words related to communication, such as 言語 (げんご, "language") or 発言 (はつげん, "statement"). An effective technique is to create flashcards with real examples: write down sentences like "彼の一言が決め手になった" ("His word was decisive") and review them in Anki.

How about practicing? The next time you want to give a quick tip, try starting with "一言だけ…" ("Just one thing..."). The Japanese love this objectivity, and you'll earn points for sounding natural. And if someone says your Japanese is sharp, you can respond with a smile and "一言で十分です" ("One word is enough")—just don't overdo the pride!

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• ひとこと (hitokoto) - One word, a brief statement.
• 一句 (ikkyu) - A line (especially of poetry).
• 一句詩 (ikkyu shi) - A poetic verse.
• 一句詩篇 (ikkyu-shihan) - A short poem.
• 一句詩歌 (ikkyu shika) - A short lyrical poem.
• 一句歌 (ikkyu uta) - A song in a line.
• 一句歌詩 (ikkyu uta-shi) - A song in a poetic line.
• 一句歌篇 (ikkyu uta-hen) - A section of a song in one line.
• 一句詩歌篇 (ikkyu shika-hen) - A section of lyrical poetry in one line.
• 一句詩篇歌 (ikkyu shihan uta) - A short poem sung.
• 一句詩篇歌詞 (ikkyu shihan uta-shi) - Lyrics of a short sung poem.

一言

Romaji: ichigen
Kana: いちげん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: unique word

Meaning in English: single word

Definition: A Japanese dictionary is a reference book that explains the meaning and use of Japanese words and expressions.

Example Sentences - (一言) ichigen

See below some example sentences:

一言では言い表せない。

Hitokoto de wa iiarawasenai.

It can't be expressed in a single word.

It's hard to put into words.

• 一言 (ひとこと) - One word, short expression
• and - Particle that indicates the means or manner in which something is done
• は - Particle that marks the topic of the sentence
• 言い表せない (いいあらわせない) - It can't be expressed, it can't be described