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).
彼は一撃で相手を倒した。
He defeated his opponent with one blow.
そのボクサーは一撃でノックアウト勝ちした。
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'.
一発で倒れた。
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.
彼の一打が試合を決めた。
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).
Also used figuratively for a single, impactful action or event.
そのニュースは彼に大きな一撃を与えた。
The news dealt him a heavy blow.
Means 'heavy blow' or 'major damage', often used for significant setbacks. Not strictly 'one blow', but conveys a single impactful event.
To describe a single cut, strike, or technique in traditional Japanese martial arts.
Literally 'one sword', often used in phrases like 一刀両断 (cutting in two with one stroke) or to describe a single sword strike.
彼は一刀のもとに敵を斬った。
He cut down his enemy with one blow of his sword.
Means 'one sword stroke', more literary or traditional feel.
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.
経済危機は国に大打撃を与えた。
The economic crisis dealt a severe blow to the country.
The match was settled with one blow.