Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Single" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "single", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
独身
どくしん (dokushin)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
一筋
ひとすじ (hitosuji)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "single" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 独身 and 一筋.
In Japanese, 独身 (どくしん (dokushin)) is typically associated with "single; unmarried" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents 結婚していない状態を表す名詞です。「独身です.
On the other hand, 一筋 (ひとすじ (hitosuji)) maps to "(1) single line/thread; (2) earnestly; wholeheartedly; single-mindedly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents When used as 一筋に or 一筋の, it often implies dedication to one thing or a straightforward path/way.. A literal translation of "single" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "独身"
彼はまだ独身です。
He is still single.
Bilingual Context for "一筋"
彼女は研究一筋の人生を送ってきた。
She has lived a life solely dedicated to research.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼はまだ ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "He is still single.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "独身" fits here because it means "single; unmarried" in the context of: "He is still single.". "一筋" represents "(1) single line/thread; (2) earnestly; wholeheartedly; single-mindedly".