Japanese meaning of 不眠不休
Reading:
ふみんふきゅう (fumin fukyuu)
English Translation:
Burning the candle at both ends
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
To continue working or pursuing a goal without rest or sleep, showing unwavering determination and effort over an extended period.
Cultural Context:
Appearing in historical war records, now used in journalism and sports to praise tireless effort.
休むことも眠ることも惜しまず、目的達成のために全力を注ぎ続ける姿。並外れた努力や根気の強さを強調します。
戦記物語などに見られ、現代では報道やスポーツで不屈の努力を称える。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase modifying “で” to indicate continuous effort without rest.
Trap for English Speakers
May be misunderstood as literally never sleeping, missing the hyperbolic nuance.
Example
Basic Example
彼は不眠不休でプロジェクトを完成させた。
He completed the project without sleeping or resting.
Applied Example
不眠不休で作業し、期限に間に合わせた。
Working without sleep or rest, he made the deadline.