Japanese meaning of 空前絶後

Reading:
くうぜんぜつご (kuuzen zetsugo)

English Translation:

One of a kind / Unparalleled

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:


Something so special and unique that nothing like it has existed before and likely never will again. It emphasizes true rarity and uniqueness.

Cultural Context:


From classical Chinese idioms, used historically to praise unparalleled events or achievements. In Japanese, it is common in awards, news headlines, and entertainment promotions.

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

• Noun phrase modifying nouns with “の” to praise unparalleled events.

Trap for English Speakers

May be overused for minor events, weakening the strong “unprecedented” meaning.

Example

Basic Example

このイベントは空前絶後の規模だ。

This event is of unprecedented scale.


Applied Example

この記録は空前絶後、二度と破られることはないだろう。

This record is unparalleled and will likely never be broken.