Japanese meaning of 一騎当千
Reading:
いっきとうせん (ikki tousen)
English Translation:
A warrior worth a thousand; extremely capable person
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
A warrior so skilled they can take on a thousand opponents; by extension, a person of exceptional ability.
Cultural Context:
Originates from Chinese historical records; in Japan, used for both martial prowess and exceptional talent in any field.
千人の敵を相手にできるほど強い戦士、または非常に有能な人物。
中国の歴史書に由来し、日本では武勇だけでなくあらゆる分野の卓越した才能にも使われる。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase with “の武将” or “の実力者” to describe someone extremely capable (“一騎当千の武将”).
• Can be used figuratively for exceptional skill in any domain.
Trap for English Speakers
Might be taken as a fixed number comparison, but it symbolizes unmatched capability rather than literal combat odds.
Example
Basic Example
一騎当千の武将が敵陣に突入した。
A warrior worth a thousand charged into the enemy camp.
Applied Example
一騎当千の部長が、文化祭準備を一人で片付けた。
The club president, worth a thousand, finished all the festival prep alone.