Proverb / Kotowaza
一心同体
Two or more people acting in perfect harmony as if they were a single person.
one heart, same body
Quick Answer
Two or more people acting in perfect harmony as if they were a single person.
- Literal Image
- one heart, same body
- How to Use It
- Used to describe teams, married couples, or close partners who are perfectly synchronized in their actions and feelings.
Meaning
This expression describes a situation where two or more people are so closely united in purpose and feeling that they act as a single entity. It emphasizes a bond characterized by total synchronization and mutual trust. It characterizes groups or pairs who work together with a shared heart and mind.
Literal Image
one heart, same body
How to Use It
Used to describe teams, married couples, or close partners who are perfectly synchronized in their actions and feelings.
Tone
Positive and emphasizing unity.
Examples
我々チームは一心同体となって、優勝を目指して戦う。
Our team will fight to win the championship as one body and soul.
夫婦は一心同体と言うが、お互いの理解と協力が不可欠だ。
It is said that a married couple is 'one heart and body,' but mutual understanding and cooperation are essential.
彼とは苦楽を共にしてきた、まさに一心同体のパートナーだ。
He is a partner I have shared joys and sorrows with; we are truly one in heart and body.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
While the individual kanji are basic, this four-character compound (yojijukugo) is an idiomatic term less transparent for beginners.
一心
いっしん / isshin
one heart; wholeheartedness; unity of mind
同体
どうたい / doutai
same body; one entity
Usage Profile
Usage note: While positive, ensure the context supports the idea of total synchronization rather than just simple agreement.
Misread Risk
Do not confuse it with simple teamwork; it implies a deeper, almost singular bond where individual boundaries seem to vanish.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
The term is composed of 'Isshin' (uniting hearts into one) and 'Dotai' (being of the same body). It vividly portrays separate individuals bound by a bond so powerful that they appear to share the same physical and emotional existence.
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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.