Proverb / Kotowaza
一発逆転
Changing a disadvantageous situation into a favorable one with a single attempt.
Turning things around with a single shot
Quick Answer
Changing a disadvantageous situation into a favorable one with a single attempt.
- Literal Image
- Turning things around with a single shot
- How to Use It
- Used when aiming for or achieving a sudden comeback from a losing position. It is suitable for competitive scenarios like sports matches, business deals, or exams.
Meaning
Ippatsu gyakuten describes a sudden and complete reversal of an unfavorable situation through one decisive action. It implies a dramatic comeback where someone in a losing position suddenly gains the upper hand. This expression is used in contexts such as sports, business, and high-stakes competitions.
Literal Image
Turning things around with a single shot
How to Use It
Used when aiming for or achieving a sudden comeback from a losing position. It is suitable for competitive scenarios like sports matches, business deals, or exams.
Tone
Neutral and energetic; can be used to describe exciting or high-stakes turnarounds.
Examples
最終回での満塁ホームランによる一発逆転に期待がかかる。
Expectations are high for a dramatic comeback with a grand slam in the final inning.
倒産寸前の会社が、画期的な新商品で一発逆転を果たした。
The company, which was on the verge of bankruptcy, achieved a complete turnaround with a revolutionary new product.
試験終了の5分前、一発逆転を狙って解答を書き直した。
Five minutes before the end of the exam, I rewrote my answer aiming for a last-minute reversal.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The kanji and readings are standard, but the compound is an idiomatic four-character expression used in specific contexts.
一発
いっぱつ / ippatsu
one shot; one try
逆転
ぎゃくてん / gyakuten
reversal; turnaround
Usage Profile
Usage note: While exciting, relying on a 'one-shot reversal' can sometimes imply a lack of steady preparation.
Misread Risk
Do not use this for gradual improvements; it specifically refers to a sudden, dramatic shift in fortune.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
This expression is used in sports and competitions to refer to a dramatic conclusion or the attitude of not giving up until the very last moment.
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.