Japanese meaning of 一生懸命
Reading:
いっしょうけんめい (isshou kenmei)
English Translation:
With all one's might and dedication
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
With all one's might and dedication
全力で物事に取り組むこと。
Cultural Context:
Motto in education, sports, and self-help culture.
教育・スポーツ・自己啓発文化のスローガンとして広く浸透している。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase for maximum effort; often with “で取り組む.”
Trap for English Speakers
May be misinterpreted as reckless overexertion.
Example
Basic Example
彼は一生懸命に勉強して試験に合格した。
He studied with all his might and dedication to pass the exam.
Applied Example
彼女は仲間を守るため、一生懸命に盾を構えた。
She raised her shield With all one's might and dedication to protect her comrades.