三さん聖せい

noun

three sages; three enlightened men

Refers to a traditional grouping of three great spiritual or philosophical figures. The exact trio varies by context: often Buddha, Confucius, and Christ; or Laozi, Confucius, and Buddha; among others.

• 三さん聖せいの教おしえは、多おおくの人ひと々びとに影えい響きょうを与あたえてきた。

  The teachings of the three sages have influenced many people.

noun

three masters; three most accomplished people

Used to refer to the three most outstanding individuals in a particular craft, trade, or field. The specific people depend on the context.

• 彼かれは日本にほん画がの三さん聖せいの一人ひとりとされている。

  He is considered one of the three masters of Japanese painting.