Japanese meaning of 百戦錬磨
Reading:
ひゃくせんれんま (hyakusen renma)
English Translation:
Hardened and experienced from many battles.
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Hardened by many battles or experiences.
Cultural Context:
From Chinese military texts, describing a warrior seasoned by a hundred battles. Modern use includes business and sports.
多くの経験を積んで熟練していること。
中国の兵法書に由来し、百戦を経て鍛えられた戦士を指す。現代ではビジネスやスポーツでも用いられる。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase with “の経験” or “の人物” to describe a highly experienced person (“百戦錬磨の人物”).
• Frequently used in military, business, or sports contexts.
Trap for English Speakers
May be assumed to mean “experienced” in a mild sense, but it emphasizes repeated trials and extensive battle-tested experience.
Example
Basic Example
彼は百戦錬磨のベテランで、どんな状況にも動じない。
He is a seasoned veteran who remains calm in any situation.
Applied Example
百戦錬磨のベテランがチームを支えた。
A battle-hardened veteran supported the team.