Translation guide
Expressing a single strike, hit, or decisive action in Japanese. The most common equivalent is 一撃 (ichigeki), but other options exist depending on context, such as martial arts, sports, or figurative use.
To refer to one physical blow, punch, or strike, often in combat or sports.
The most direct and common translation for 'one blow', used in both literal and figurative contexts (e.g., defeating an opponent with one strike).
He defeated his opponent with one blow.
The boxer won by knockout with one blow.
Literally 'one shot' or 'one punch', often used in casual contexts for a single punch or hit. Can also mean 'one attempt'.
He went down with one punch.
Means 'one stroke' or 'one hit', often used in sports like baseball or golf, or in contexts emphasizing a single swing.
His one blow decided the match.
To express a single, decisive action that has a major impact, often metaphorical (e.g., a blow to one's pride, a financial blow).
To describe a single cut, strike, or technique in traditional Japanese martial arts.
一撃 (ichigeki) is more formal and general, suitable for both literal and figurative blows. 一発 (ippatsu) is casual and often implies a punch or a single attempt, and can sound more colloquial.
Directly translating 'one blow' as 一つの打撃 (hitotsu no dageki) is unnatural. Use the compound words above instead.
The economic crisis dealt a severe blow to the country.
一太刀で勝負がついた。
The match was settled with one blow.