Japanese meaning of 一朝一夕

Reading:
いっちょういっせき (icchou isseki)

English Translation:

In a short time; overnight

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:


A short span of time—literally “one morning, one evening”—used to stress that certain goals cannot be achieved overnight and require sustained effort.

Cultural Context:


Common in education, skills training, and project management discourse; sets realistic expectations and counters “quick fix” thinking.

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

• Noun phrase for a short period of time; often with “では成し得ない.”

Trap for English Speakers

May be mistaken as literally meaning “overnight.”

Example

Basic Example

成功は一朝一夕には得られない。

Success cannot be achieved in a short time.


Applied Example

「一朝一夕で強くなれるわけないだろ!」

You can’t become strong in a short time!