Proverb / Kotowaza
一世一代
A once-in-a-lifetime major event or the most important moment of one's life.
one lifetime, one generation
Quick Answer
A once-in-a-lifetime major event or the most important moment of one's life.
- Literal Image
- one lifetime, one generation
- How to Use It
- Can be used to describe high-stakes situations such as a major career gamble, a final performance, or a deeply significant personal declaration.
Meaning
It refers to a significant event or performance that happens only once in a person's life. It captures the weight of a moment that represents the culmination of one's efforts or a turning point that will never be repeated.
Literal Image
one lifetime, one generation
How to Use It
Can be used to describe high-stakes situations such as a major career gamble, a final performance, or a deeply significant personal declaration.
Tone
Carries a serious and high-stakes nuance, reflecting the unique importance of the occasion.
Examples
一世一代の大勝負に出て、見事に成功を収めた。
He took a once-in-a-lifetime gamble and achieved a brilliant success.
一世一代の晴れ舞台に、彼女は最高の演技を見せた。
She gave her best performance on a once-in-a-lifetime grand stage.
一世一代の告白をする覚悟を決めた。
I resolved to make a once-in-a-lifetime confession.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Uses basic kanji, but the specific idiomatic usage and source context make it less transparent for beginners.
一世
いっせい / issei
a lifetime
一代
いちだい / ichidai
one's lifetime; a generation
晴れ舞台
はれぶたい / harebutai
grand stage; big moment
Usage Profile
Usage note: Best reserved for truly unique, life-changing moments rather than merely important ones.
Misread Risk
Do not use it for repetitive important events; it implies that this specific opportunity will never come again.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
The term originated from the world of Kabuki. It specifically referred to the final grand performance an actor would give of their signature role just before retiring from the stage.
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.