Proverb / Kotowaza
一挙一動
Every single movement or behavior.
one lifting and one moving
Quick Answer
Every single movement or behavior.
- Literal Image
- one lifting and one moving
- How to Use It
- Used to describe a situation where a person's movements are being closely observed, such as an athlete during a game, a candidate in an interview, or a love interest.
Meaning
Refers to each and every action, gesture, or behavior a person makes. It highlights that even the slightest motion is being noticed or scrutinized by others.
Literal Image
one lifting and one moving
How to Use It
Used to describe a situation where a person's movements are being closely observed, such as an athlete during a game, a candidate in an interview, or a love interest.
Tone
Neutral.
Examples
観客の視線が、選手の一挙一動に注がれている。
The audience's eyes are focused on every single move of the athlete.
好きな人の一挙一動が気になって仕方がない。
I can't help but pay attention to every single gesture made by the person I like.
面接では、一挙一動が評価の対象となるので気が抜けない。
In an interview, every single movement is being evaluated, so you must stay alert.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
This is a four-character compound (yojijukugo) using kanji that are individually simple but form a formal idiomatic expression.
一挙
いっきょ / ikkyo
one action; raising
一動
いちどう / ichido
one movement
Usage Profile
Usage note: While it can be used in positive contexts like sports, it carries a sense of being under scrutiny.
Misread Risk
Do not interpret this only as large physical actions; it specifically includes slight gestures and subtle behavior.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
The character '挙' (kyo) represents raising a hand, while '動' (dou) represents moving the body. The expression refers to each and every slight movement a person makes.
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.