碁石を打つ

• Reading: ごいしをうつ
• Romaji: goishi wo utsu
• Kanji breakdown: 碁 (go) — the game of Go; 石 (seki/ishi) — stone; 打 (da/utsu) — to strike, to place
• Pronunciation: /ɡo.i.ɕi.o.ɯ.t͡sɯ/

Meaning

To place a stone on the board in the game of Go; to make a deliberate move in a game of Go.

A verb phrase using 打つ (a Group 1 godan verb) combined with 碁石 (go stone). While 打つ literally means to strike or hit, in the context of Go it means to place a stone with deliberate strategic intent. The phrase conveys patience, calculation, and the philosophical weight that surrounds the game in Japanese culture.

Examples

1. 師匠は静かに碁石を打ち、弟子の反応をじっと観察した。 The master quietly placed a stone and watched the disciple's reaction intently.
2. 一手碁石を打つだけで、盤面の形勢が大きく変わることがある。 A single stone placement can dramatically shift the balance of the board.
3. 彼は長考の末に中央へ碁石を打つ決断をした。 After long deliberation, he decided to place a stone in the centre.

Usage Guide

Context: board games, Go (囲碁), strategy, traditional culture

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From 碁 (the board game Go, originating in ancient China) and 石 (stone) combined with 打つ (to strike, to place). Go was introduced to Japan via China and Korea in the 7th century and became deeply embedded in aristocratic and samurai culture.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical–Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated