Japanese meaning of 唯我独尊
Reading:
ゆいがどくそん (yuiga dokuson)
English Translation:
Full of oneself / Self-important
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
To believe oneself to be far superior to others, acting with extreme arrogance and disregarding the value of others. This can lead to isolation and lack of cooperation.
自分が誰よりも優れていると考え、他人を見下すような傲慢な態度をとること。協調性に欠け、孤立しやすい性格を表現します。
Cultural Context:
Comes from Buddhist scripture describing the Buddha’s enlightenment declaration, later also used in a self-centered sense. Modern Japanese distinguishes respectful and pejorative uses depending on context.
仏教経典にある釈迦の悟りの言葉に由来し、本来は崇高な意味を持つが、後に自己中心的な意味にも使われるようになった。現代日本語では文脈によって敬意と皮肉の両方のニュアンスを持つ。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase often followed by “の精神” or “の態度” to describe self-regard.
Trap for English Speakers
Can be misunderstood as purely arrogant; learners may miss its original Buddhist noble meaning.
Example
Basic Example
彼の唯我独尊な態度が批判を招いた。
His “I am the most important” attitude drew criticism.
Applied Example
「唯我独尊、俺が最強だ。」
Full of myself — I’m the strongest.