Japanese meaning of 一触即発
Reading:
いっしょくそくはつ (isshoku sokuhatsu)
English Translation:
On the verge / On the brink
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
A tense situation where the smallest incident could trigger a major conflict or disaster. It is often used for diplomatic or political standoffs, or other situations on the brink of crisis.
Cultural Context:
Originates from descriptions of explosives igniting upon the slightest touch. In modern Japanese, used for international relations, workplace disputes, and personal arguments nearing a breaking point.
ちょっとしたきっかけで大きなトラブルや争いごとが発生しそうな、非常に危険で緊張感の高い状況。緊迫した現場や国際問題などで用いられます。
触れるとすぐ爆発する火薬の様子に由来する。現代日本語では国際情勢、職場の対立、個人間の口論など、衝突寸前の緊張状態を表す。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase describing tense situations; often followed by “の状態.”
Trap for English Speakers
May be misinterpreted as a physical touch-triggered explosion only, missing the metaphorical tension meaning.
Example
Basic Example
国境での緊張が一触即発の状態だ。
Tensions at the border are on the verge of erupting.
Applied Example
両軍がにらみ合い、一触即発の緊張が走る。
The two armies stared each other down, on the verge of battle.