Japanese meaning of 先手必勝

Reading:
せんてひっしょう (sente hisshou)

English Translation:

Seizing the initiative ensures victory

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:


Seizing the initiative ensures victory.
先手を取れば必ず勝つこと。

Cultural Context:


Sports, military strategy, and competitive business contexts use this as a tactical maxim.
スポーツ・軍略・競争の激しいビジネス環境で戦術的格言として用いられる。

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

• Noun phrase for winning by taking the initiative; often with “の構え.”

Trap for English Speakers

May be misunderstood as always guaranteeing victory.

Example

Basic Example

スポーツでは先手必勝が重要だ。

In sports, seizing the initiative ensures victory.


Applied Example

「この試合、先手必勝だ!最初から全力で行け!」

In this match, seizing the initiative ensures victory! Give it your all from the start!