Japanese meaning of 一喜一憂
Reading:
いっきいちゆう (ikki ichiyuu)
English Translation:
Alternating between joy and sorrow
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Alternating between joy and sorrow depending on circumstances.
状況に応じて喜んだり悲しんだりすること。
Cultural Context:
Used for sports fans, stock investors, and students awaiting results.
スポーツ観戦や株式投資、試験結果待ちなどで、感情が上下する様子を表す。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase meaning “alternating between joy and sorrow,” often with “する.”
Trap for English Speakers
May be interpreted only in literal emotional swings, ignoring broader contexts like sports or markets.
Example
Basic Example
試験結果に一喜一憂してはいけない。
You shouldn't alternate between joy and sorrow over exam results.
Applied Example
試合の結果に一喜一憂する。
He alternates between joy and sorrow over the game’s outcome.