Yojijukugo
Japanese meaning of 一挙一動
Voice sample:
いっきょいちどう (ikkyo ichidou)
English Translation:
Every move
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Literally “one raising, one movement”; every single action or movement someone makes.
日本語で読む
一つ一つの動作やふるまい。
Cultural Context:
It is often used with words like 注目する or 見守る, about someone who is being watched closely. A similar phrase is 一挙手一投足.
日本語で読む
「一挙一動に注目する」のように、人の動きを細かく見守るときによく使う。似た言葉に「一挙手一投足」がある。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Often “一挙一動に注目する” or “一挙一動を見守る.”
日本語で読む
•「一挙一動に注目する」「一挙一動を見守る」のように使う。
Trap for English Speakers
一挙 is read いっきょ, with a small っ. Don't confuse it with 一挙両得, which means two gains from one action.
日本語で読む
「一挙」は「いっきょ」と読む。「一挙両得」とは意味がちがう。
Example
Example 1Basic Example
初めての授業で、生徒たちは新しい先生の一挙一動を見つめていた。
In the first class, the students watched the new teacher's every move.
Example 2Applied Example
天井裏の忍びは、城主の一挙一動を息をひそめて見張った。
From the attic, the ninja held his breath and watched the lord's every move.
Quick check
Meaning
What does 「一挙一動」 mean?