Yojijukugo
Japanese meaning of 単刀直入
Reading:
Voice sample:
たんとうちょくにゅう (tantō chokunyū)
English Translation:
Straight to the point
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Speaking directly and to the point without hesitation.
日本語で読む
前置きなしで核心に入ること。
Cultural Context:
Often used in instructions, meaning to get straight to the point.
日本語で読む
説明や指示で、要点から話すことを促す。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Adverbial usage with “に入る.”
日本語で読む
• 「〜に入る」と組み合わせて副詞的に使う。
Trap for English Speakers
May be mistaken as physically entering with a sword.
日本語で読む
「刀を持って入る」と直訳的に誤解される。
Example
Example 1Basic Example
単刀直入に聞くけど、この案件は進めていい？
Let me get straight to the point—can we proceed with this project?
Example 2Applied Example
「単刀直入に言う。お前が必要だ。」
I’ll get straight to the point. I need you.
Quick check
Meaning
What does 「単刀直入」 mean?