Proverb / Kotowaza
一言一句
Every single word or the smallest detail of a statement.
one word, one phrase
Quick Answer
Every single word or the smallest detail of a statement.
- Literal Image
- one word, one phrase
- How to Use It
- Used when describing the act of listening, reading, or recording something word for word, or when emphasizing that every part of a statement matters.
Meaning
Refers to every single word in a text or speech. It is used to emphasize that not even the smallest verbal detail should be overlooked or omitted, especially when precision is required.
Literal Image
one word, one phrase
How to Use It
Used when describing the act of listening, reading, or recording something word for word, or when emphasizing that every part of a statement matters.
Tone
Neutral and precise.
Examples
先生の話を一言一句聞き漏らさないようにメモを取った。
I took notes so as not to miss a single word of the teacher's talk.
契約書の内容は一言一句確認する必要がある。
It is necessary to confirm the contents of the contract word for word.
彼の証言は一言一句が重要な意味を持っている。
Every single word of his testimony carries important meaning.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
While the kanji for 'one', 'word', and 'phrase' are basic, the four-character compound (yojijukugo) structure and the specific 'ichigon' reading make it less transparent for beginners.
一言
いちごん / ichigon
one word
一句
いっく / ikku
one phrase; one line
Usage Profile
Usage note: Use this to emphasize completeness; it is not merely for 'a few words' but for 'every single word' without exception.
Misread Risk
Although '一言' (hitokoto) means just 'a word' or 'a brief comment' in casual speech, in this fixed idiom it specifically emphasizes checking or recording everything 'word for word'.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
Both 「一言」 (ichigon) and 「一句」 (ikku) refer to short words or phrases. By repeating them together, the expression emphasizes the nuance of not neglecting even the smallest verbal details.
Index
Topics, Situations, and Tags
Topics
Situations
Tags
Source Note
Where did this entry get its data from? The reference links are listed below. To understand how to read this section, see Data Sources.