PhraseNinja

Yojijukugo

Japanese meaning of 一心不乱

Reading:

いっしんふらん (isshin furan)

English Translation:

Single-mindedly. / With undivided attention.

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:

To dedicate oneself entirely to a task with undivided attention, ignoring distractions and focusing all mental and physical energy on one goal.
日本語で読む
周囲の雑念や誘惑に流されることなく、心も体も一つのことに全力を注いで取り組むこと。他のことを考えず、目の前の目標に集中する様子を表します。

Cultural Context:

Appearing in literature, sports commentary, and workplace praise, the phrase reflects Japan’s admiration for concentration and dedication.
日本語で読む
文学、スポーツ解説、職場での称賛などに登場し、日本文化における集中力や献身の美徳を表す。

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

• "Single-mindedly." / "With undivided attention." = Used to describe a state of total focus.<br>• Can be applied to studying, working, or pursuing goals.
日本語で読む
• 一つのことに「心を乱さず集中する」という状態を表し、努力や熱心さのニュアンスが含まれる。

Trap for English Speakers

Direct translation as "with one heart, no confusion" will not be understood; use "single-mindedly" or "with full concentration" for clarity.
日本語で読む
直訳「one heart, no confusion」では意味が伝わらないので、「single-mindedly」や「with undivided attention」と表現するのが自然。

Example

Example 1Basic Example

  1. 彼は一心不乱に作業を続けた。

    He kept working single-mindedly.

Example 2Applied Example

  1. 一心不乱に打ち込み、周囲の声など耳に入らなかった。

    He was so focused, working with undivided attention, that he didn’t hear the voices around him.

Quick check

Meaning

What does 「一心不乱」 mean?

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