Proverb / Kotowaza
一心不乱
To focus entirely on a single task without being distracted by anything else.
one mind, not scattered
Quick Answer
To focus entirely on a single task without being distracted by anything else.
- Literal Image
- one mind, not scattered
- How to Use It
- Used to describe someone who is deeply engrossed in an activity, such as studying, working, or competing, without letting their attention wander.
Meaning
This four-character idiom describes a state of intense, single-minded concentration. It means dedicating all of one's attention to a specific matter, completely ignoring any outside disturbances. It portrays total immersion and unwavering devotion to the task at hand.
Literal Image
one mind, not scattered
How to Use It
Used to describe someone who is deeply engrossed in an activity, such as studying, working, or competing, without letting their attention wander.
Tone
Positive, highlighting dedication and intense focus.
Examples
彼は周りの音も聞こえないほど、一心不乱に勉強に打ち込んでいる。
He is throwing himself into his studies with single-minded focus, to the point that he cannot even hear the sounds around him.
職人が一心不乱に木を削る姿には、神聖な空気さえ漂っていた。
There was even a sacred air about the craftsman as he shaved the wood with single-minded focus.
ゴールを目指して、選手たちは一心不乱に駆け抜けた。
Aiming for the goal, the athletes dashed through with single-minded focus.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Composed of fundamental kanji, forming a standard four-character compound with straightforward literal components.
一心
いっしん / isshin
one mind, wholeheartedness
不乱
ふらん / furan
undistracted, not disordered
Usage Profile
Misread Risk
Focuses strictly on mental concentration and immersion, not merely putting in physical effort without focus.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
Derived from a Buddhist term referring to directing one's mind toward a single object without letting it scatter. The phrase is found in Buddhist texts such as the Amitabha Sutra.
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.